Tag Archives: raptors

LA CBS tribute to Jackie…late Friday in Bird World

14 August 2026

Good Evening Everyone!

We hope you had a good end of the week and that this weekend you take time to breathe and get outside. The summer is quickly coming to an end, and we can already see a tinge in the leaves across our back lane. Today, the birds were in a big flurry around 1500. The Crow family was all in attendance, along with the six Blue Jays – and hundreds and hundreds of sparrows of various types. We noticed a lactating grey squirrel, but it was not Dyson. Since the disappearance of Brock and the other cat, Charlie, we have also noticed a decline in the number of grey squirrels. Down by half. As I have mentioned previously, there is some concern that someone is using rodenticide. That deadly poison goes through the food chain – it can even kill the hawk that comes several times a week! Please do not use it, and if you know of others who do, don’t attack them but do educate them. So read up – there is lots of information on the dangers of this deadly poison on the Internet.

I want to thank everyone for their notes while you grieve, Jackie. She was so loved, and her influence has touched so many. I am grateful for the excellent care she received, from the first responders to the staff and volunteers at the Ojai Raptor Centre. Jackie died a natural death – and whether she knew it or not, she was surrounded by love. Tributes are still being made, and many want a permanent memorial to her at Big Bear Valley. Flower tributes have been left, and I know from your notes and comments that many people have a big hole in their hearts. Luna and Sandy are fine. I find it very interesting that Jackie stayed strong until they had left the area. As you know, raptors hide their vulnerabilities. Otherwise, others will try to take their position. At some point, however, when one is so very, very sick, that illness cannot be hidden anymore, and that is what happened to our dear Jackie. Shadow will be fine. He misses Jackie. He calls out for her, but no one answers. It is not breeding season, but like M15, he will need a strong mate to help him keep the Big Bear nest. It looks like the one female, nearing five years, KD1, is hoping to fill that spot. We need to send Shadow our best wishes just like we did Bella (NCTC), Connie (Captiva), Gabby (NE Florida) and M15 (SW Florida) – to name a few of the eagles who have lost their mates in the past five years.

CBS LA has a lovely thirty-minute tribute: https://youtu.be/B2od9c1IlDo?

I am delighted to report that one female osprey, Blue NC0, whose mate, Laddie LM12, died two years ago, appears to have found another nest and mate. She lost her nest at Loch of the Lowes last year when she failed to bond with the Dark Knight. She has recently been at the Alyth SS Substation nest that previously belonged to Harry and Flora. Harry disappeared, and Flora lost her nest (or that is what it appears). Clyde is the current male, and he has been bringing fish to Blue NC0. Loch of the Lowes and Alyth are approximately 18 km away from one another. I wish Blue NC0 the best.

I want to begin with Geemeff’s summaries and videos from Loch Arkaig:

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 14th August 2026

Today’s big story is the Nest Two camera being taken out by an electrical storm. Unfortunately, as it’s in a remote area, it’s going to take a while to restore service but it is being worked on, and luckily Nest One cam is still streaming live. Garry LV0 wasn’t seen today so his fish tally remains at two hundred and one, but Aurora 536 came to the nest and preened quietly for a few minutes before departing. Thanks to off-nest reports from local resident LizB, we know the chicks were around today both on and off the nest, and Louis was seen delivering fish. Fishing stats guru Steve Quinn has worked out a formula for estimating deliveries by Louis during the cam outage and the Nest Two tally has been raised to four hundred and nineteen. Dorcha has not been seen on cam since Saturday 8th and off-cam on Tuesday 11th. Meanwhile, all the main events of Season Ten are available on Woodland Trust’s playlist, details in the bonus section. After a stormy night, the weather was reasonably settled today but at the time of this report, midnight, it’s raining and due to continue overnight with a low of 12°C, changing to light showers with sunny intervals and a high of 18°C tomorrow.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/3abZkT-QbX8 N2 The moment the storm takes the camera out 04.29.31 https://youtu.be/e3GDrR-jrtc N1 Aurora arrives, preens quietly, no Garry so she departs 08.41.36 

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 13th August 2026 

Garry LV0 and Aurora spent time on Nest One today, and he brought her one fish, taking his tally to two hundred and one. The two chicks were on and off Nest Two being very competitive, squaring up to each other, slapping wings, pushing each other off the nest and chasing, and generally doing their best to get as much fish as possible. Louis only brought three fish, all flatfish, and Amber got the first two and Juniper the third. The Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred and fourteen. Dorcha wasn’t seen today, either on or off the nest, and it looks like she might have headed south – we wish her fair winds and plenty of fish and look forward to seeing her safely back next year for Season Eleven. The weather was damp and overcast, with Nest One shrouded in mist at times, and the damp weather is set to continue with thundery showers and light winds and a low of 16°C overnight, continuing tomorrow with light rain, a gentle breeze, occasional sunny spells and a high of 19°C.

Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/Bwa5tZUn8gw N2 Amber’s waiting when Louis brings the first fish 11.48.59https://youtu.be/4C9DHUpEri0 N2 Amber gets the second fish as Juniper loses out again 15.09.25https://youtu.be/AL-CYDZL52M N2 Finally it’s Juniper’s turn and she gets fish three 16.09.41https://youtu.be/-LZhVieT–0 N1 Aurora’s calls are answered when Garry brings a fish 16.47.16

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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Individuals throughout the UK (and elsewhere like myself) are fed up with the medieval practice on the shooting estates BECAUSE it leads to the gamekeepers poisoning, beating, and killing in the most bizarre ways the raptors that come and take a grouse for food. No one tells them they crossed a boundary – and to be honest the pheasants imported, the monies exchanged, never warrant the brutal killing of the raptors.

Reclaim Our Moors – protest walk against grouse shooting, Peak District National Park, Sunday 16 AugDownload

In the US, people are worried about changes to The Endangered Species Act. Audubon tells us all about it:

Conserving Habitat Has Always Been Central to the Endangered Species Act | AudubonDownload

As you are aware, I am a big fan of Knepp Farms and their Rewilding campaign. In their latest newsletter, they tell of the most recent introduction: “In our latest episode of the Knepp Wilding Podcast, butterfly expert and old friend Neil Hulme joins us to talk about the Knepp Wildland Foundation’s most recent reintroduction project – the black-veined white butterfly.  

Absent from Britain for more than a century, Neil discusses the specialist task of reintroducing a species that vanished this long ago and why we’re hopeful that this rare, striking insect will once again become a UK resident.”

The newsletter also brings up other issues such as the failure of national parks to provide safe environments for wildlife. There are other stories. Have a read.

News from Knepp National Parks or National EmbarrassmentDownload

Oh, you want cute. They look like miniature fuzzy snow persons! SE37 and 38 are adorable.

SK Hideaways has a cute video of the little sea eaglets. You also get to hear the duet! : https://youtu.be/QfxN_k_qH24?

Sadly, it appears that we will not have any Ervie babies this year. We saw him at the nest, but no female! Oh, let’s hope a female comes around. We love Ervie – and I can’t wait til he is a Dad.

Phoenix, from the Sandpoint nest, is doing well in rehab. He is said to be very, very feisty! He won’t leave his wing protector on…but this is good. He will be strong when he leaves care and goes back into the world. (A Bald Eagle injured Phoenix when he flew off the nest).

The females are starting to migrate in the UK. Blue 014 from the Pont Cresor nest in Glaslyn has not been seen since she had a fish on the Glaslyn nest on the 10th. Other females are helping the males fill up the chicks!

Take care everyone. Thanks for being with us. I keep saying I am going to take a day off. Maybe it will be tomorrow. I am hoping to get us on a little road trip if it isn’t raining all day.

Thank you to SK Hideaways and Geemeff for their videos and summaries of nest activities, to Knepp Farms for giving me hope for the future, to everyone who posted information and images on FB, to Ruth T for chasing down the latest raptor persecution news in the UK, and to everyone who owns a camera or posts news somewhere so that we know what is happening in the nests. A big thank you to CBS LA for a lovely tribute to Jackie.

SE37 and 38 hatch on the same day…Thursday in Bird World

13 August 2026

I am hoping that this is the week of ‘good’ news!

SE37 is white, fuzzy, and adorable. SK Hideaways has the hatch in the Olympic Park in Sydney! https://youtu.be/iswZi-9VZMU?

First feeding. You can also see the pip in the second egg. Come on SE38!

SE38 worked that pip really fast and both sea eaglets hatched within 24 hours. Fantastic.

Patience and Compassion have yet to fledge at the Glacier Gardens Bald Eagle nest in Alaska. They are so close. Just look at those hatch dates and remember the number 77 – a great day for fledging. They are sure gorgeous, fully feathered, and, let’s hope, very healthy! Patience (GG10) hatched on June 2, and Compassion (GG11) hatched on June 4.

Patience is 72 days old today.

Iris and Wensi wait for Clarke to bring breakfast. I didn’t see a delivery (perhaps I missed it). Later the pair flew off.

Waiting for breakfast at Poole Harbour!

‘J’ sent an update on Snow that they found:

‘

Maybe this is the way to stop the killing of the Hen Harriers and other raptors on these estates!!!

Top London chef shuns Red Grouse from large “factory grouse shooting operations” where birds of preyDownload

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Wednesday 12th August 2026
Garry LV0 and Aurora 536 are both still here – Garry brought a fish for Aurora which is officially fish number 200 for him, but with the nest cam being down for 6-8 hours daily, his actual total is almost certainly much higher. This time last year Aurora had already left on migration, last seen 28th July, she could go at any time so every sighting is to be treasured. Dorcha didn’t appear on nest cam again today, although an adult Osprey, more than likely Dorcha, was spotted by LizB yesterday perched near Louis so she is probably still in the area. Last year her final sighting was on 7th August but as this season started later than usual due to Louis’ late return, she might stay around for a bit longer. Her two chicks should definitely be here til at least the end of the month, fattening up and competing for food ready for the rigours of migration. Louis brought three fish for them today, and the Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred and eleven. The weather was settled but cloudy so today’s eclipse wasn’t visible, and the forecast is for light rain and an overnight low of 17°C, continuing wet tomorrow with sunny intervals and a high of 23°C.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/OlWuTsWZir8 N2 Louis lands on an empty nest and waits for a chick to arrive 05.50.57https://youtu.be/3ZQTarHD1Dw N2 Juniper’s waiting and gets fish two 11.04.53https://youtu.be/gInHcbLfsoE N1 Garry brings a fish for Aurora 14.16.18https://youtu.be/O-TvX8jBAXs N2 Juniper gets fish three and drives Amber off the nest 19.30.06

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

Phoenix is doing well in care and enjoyed a ‘bass’ dinner last evening after having flown and been chased and grounded by a Bald Eagle. Thank you to everyone who helped Keke and Kam’s only osplet this year at Sandpoint.Update: Sandpoint Osprey Nest Friends

Phoenix is in strong spirits today. Now that he is stabilised, we will proceed with diagnostics like X-rays and possible surgery to repair a laceration. He is on pain medication and feeling feisty. There are always unknowns when it comes to wild raptors, but we have high hopes. We will be sure to update everyone later this afternoon as we know more. Thank you to everyone for caring for the Osprey and all the local raptors! ❤

Good news coming from Tweed Valley. Remember the second osplet was removed due to aggression and potential siblicide. It was returned when strong enough to fight off the older sibling. So far, so good!

At Blackbush. This is hilarious. Please read.

Black stork news from Estonia.

Switzerland has long to have ospreys and their translocation project paid off this year with the first hatches!

Thank you so much for being with us today. Please take care – there is lots and lots of news coming in – it is hard to keep up some days! I will be back with you on Saturday evening. I am taking a day off! We were at the farm today to get eggs and veggies along with some beautiful flowers.

It was a wonderful day.

Thank you to Geemeff and SK Hideaways for their great work in providing videos and daily summaries; to those who post images and news on FB, we are grateful. Thank you to those who write about and track persecution against raptors, and to the owners of the streaming cams that let us look into the lives of raptors.

Wednesday in Bird World

12 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

The tributes to Jackie continue to pour in and your wonderful, heartfelt words have meant so much to me. I hope to include them in a short tribute to The Queen of Big Bear Valley once the aching goes away. She meant so much to us and motivated so many people. It is still hard to put it into words.

Celebrating in the Olympic Park as SE37 has its beak out and by the time I send this tomorrow, it will have fully hatched. Congratulations Dad and Lady! SK Hideaways has the video: https://youtu.be/1gUHaF2o7nc?

Lady can hear her babies wanting to hatch:

Migration is starting and Hawk Mountain has put out its first count. “The wait is almost over! Autumn migration returns to the Mountain this Saturday, August 15. As raptors begin their journey south, Hawk Mountain comes alive with opportunities to observe, learn, and explore. Enjoy the Autumn Lecture Series, free weekend programs, time at the lookout, or a peaceful walk on the trails. See what’s coming up and plan your trip!

As always, thank you for your support, and you can stay up to date on all Hawk Mountain programs and happenings at hawkmountain.org/events.”

If you live near Hawk Mountain, why not participate? Here are the details:

Autumn Migration Hawkwatch Begins

Several Counters Stationed at North Lookout in Autumn

Daily, August 15-December 15
9 am to 5 pm
Trail fee required for Non-Members

The Annual Autumn Hawk Watch begins August 15 at the Sanctuary’s famed North Lookout and is conducted daily, weather permitting, through December 15.

An average 18,000 birds of prey will soar over the Sanctuary’s rocky North Lookout, a 1,500-foot outcropping on the Kittatinny Ridge or “Blue Mountain.”  Each year we tally the number and type of birds that pass. An official counter and interpreters are on hand to point out and identify birds.

Visitors should bring binoculars (or rent them at the Visitor Center), something soft to sit on, and a daypack with water and snacks. Plan to relax at the lookout and spend at least an hour. Many people spend the morning, afternoon or even the entire day!

Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to learn more about hawk migration and enjoy this spectacle of nature!

Date & Time

August, 2026

15

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Daily through Dec 15

Location

North Lookout

We had a great Tuesday. Ann helped me with Don and together with Toby we went out to Wildlife Haven in search of a mystery. Lately there has been a Mississippi Kite in one of our parks. As it turns out, in 2014, a pair of kites made a nest and fledged young. One unlucky chick found its way to Wildlife Haven where it has been an ambassador ever since – Milan. Was Milan still alive? I had been at the rehab centre oodles of times, taking in birds, making donations, attending open house but I could never recall Milan. The cage was empty today but Milan is still very much alive. Inside away from the heat. We will double check on Open House!

Two Great Horned Owls were out, along with Majestic, and the two goofy Turkey Vultures – Gus and Leo. Gus and Leo will make you fall in love with Turkey Vultures, I promise. They are such characters.

Majestic.

Geese!

On our way home, we stopped in one of the developments just outside the City. I had been told by a former student, Selena Panchoo, that there was an amazing Latino bakery there. Her recommendation did not disappoint! Made on-premises- we could watch – the desserts were divine. A big plus was that, unlike most City cafes, Toby was allowed! The owner had owned a Cavalier at one time and fell in love with Toby immediately. They will certainly have our business.

Mango cheesecake – mango through and through and you can’t beat a Jarritos soda on a warm day.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Tuesday 11th August 2026
Some aggression was shown by the chicks today, especially over Louis’ first delivery, which was just a scrap of fish, but as the day went on and Louis kept delivering a steady stream of fish, the aggression died down. Louis brought eight fish, taking the Nest Two tally to four hundred and eight, and there was so much fish that even the marauding Hoodies got a share. They were out in force today, probably the same pair throughout the day, and even Louis had to put up with one at close range, while a bold Hoodie flew down next to Amber and grabbed a big fish from right beside her. However, as she had just received the eighth fish from Louis and both she and Juniper had bulging crops, it wasn’t the disaster it would have been yesterday. Garry LV0 brought three fish for Aurora 536 and the Nest One tally rises to one hundred and ninety nine. Noisy RAF jets caught on both nest cams disturbed Aurora and she left her perch on Pole Tree and flew over to the nest.

 It looks like Dorcha is still in the area, just not coming to the nest, as LizB spotted an adult Osprey perching near Louis behind the nest. Although it would be great to see her, with the chicks’ current aggro due to hyperphagia, that’s probably a wise move. The weather was settled and forecast to continue, with an overnight low of 14°C and a high tomorrow of 24°C.
Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/THyZ1Xc-YjI N2 First fish is just a scrap but the chicks fight over it anyway 05.37.02https://youtu.be/qf-pqHMMP74 N2 Louis waits on an empty nest for a chick to claim fish two 06.02.54https://youtu.be/66wY8eObpLI N1 First fish for Aurora is a frantically flapping flatfish 12.40.47https://youtu.be/ZV2_ovPhhoI N2 Amber’s  ready and waiting when fish three arrives 13.56.52https://youtu.be/gwdI5EpnoA8 N2 Amber keeps old fish three as Juniper gets fish four 14.19.34https://youtu.be/OHcUmXoIf3w N2 Juniper still has fish four and also gets fish five 15.10.43https://youtu.be/gxQEHIylHo4 N1 Aurora grabs a few bites of fish two before departing 15.47.36https://youtu.be/4E-dIkqMwYI N2 Louis brings fish six and chases off Hoodies 17.05.12https://youtu.be/BilLYiGOQnI  N1&2 RAF jets flypast both nests and disturb Aurora on Pole Tree 18.10.40 (zoom)https://youtu.be/2tYjw_SeLgw N2 Hoodies scarper as Louis brings fish seven 19.05.21https://youtu.be/AI9A_9sXt8U N1 Garry brings a third fish for Aurora 19.50.29https://youtu.be/wFRRo_54sN8 N2 Hoodie steals a fish from Amber but she keeps fish eight 20.59.02

Come and join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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The Black Storks in northern Europe appear to have fledged.

My friend, Sassa Bird brings me news from Lativa about the birds in that area:



That is wonderful news. I have been following some nests in Estonia – and so happy that Urmas is feeding the storklets, as it appears the parents are gone.


Wensi is feisty! https://youtu.be/-BLS5TdUhWQ?

Wensi is, to me, very special. I don’t know if Iris, who is at a minimum of thirty years, will return next year to be reunited with Clarke and have other chicks. So I am treasuring every moment of them on the nest. They are on the big screen at our house -. I do adore this family.

Fledglings doing well at Clark PUD. Showing up for fish!

We have news that the only surviving osplet on the Osoyoos platform in Osoyoos, British Columbia is doing well and getting fish from the parents. The camera is down.

The osplet that was removed from the Tweed Valley nest due to thrashings and its old sibling not allowing it to it has been returned to the nest. Lots of fish gifts were left and observations show that the two are getting along and feedings are going smoothly. Well done, Tweed Valley and Forestry England.

Documentaries about a murder do not often have a connection with our raptors but in the case of the Edradymate Estate, they certainly do!

New documentary now available about Edradynate Estate gamekeeper David Campbell’s conviction for murDownload

I was going to check on the status of the condors and the Big Sur fire and ‘B’ sent me the latest link. This is what he writes, “Hi Mary Ann,

I’ve pasted at the bottom of this email the link to a San Francisco Chronicle article about the Big Sur fire, which is dated yesterday and appeared in the print edition of the paper today.  (I might be one of the last people who actually buys and reads the print edition of the Chronicle each day.)  

It is only the last two paragraphs of the article that address the condor issue.  To summarize those paragraphs, the article mentions that the fire has disrupted road access to the condor sanctuary, that Kelly Sorenson says the two condors confined there have gone four days without fresh food or water, and that Kelly is working with firefighters to open access to the sanctuary.  But what I like best is the final quote from Kelly:  “If for some reason they (the firefighters) are not able to do that (that is, open the access road to Kelly), then we’re prepared to hike up if need be.”  Yeah, you go, Kelly!

https://www.sfchronicle.com/california-wildfires/article/timber-fire-big-sur-highway-1-resorts-22383405.php

Signing off. Don is out with Ann and Toby and I are going to go for a nice walk in the coolish breeze. It is such a gorgeous day. Tomorrow we are going to the farm to get produce and on the weekend, I am hoping we will have one of those mystery car tours. The goal is to get Don out every day and for me to get out, even if it is a walk with Toby and then a nice cuppa sitting in the sunshine. We have – Toby and I – decided no housework today! Melissa is coming Monday and she will have her work cut out for her.

You will notice that I have not included any of the thousands of tributes to Jackie. I am hoping that you will continue to send me a note about what Jackie meant to you so that I can include it on her Memorial Wall and here in the blog. I hope to do that next week, so please send a comment about Jackie or an e-mail. The address is maryannsteggles@icloud.com I will only use your initial!

Take care, everyone.

Thank you to Geemeff for her daily summary and videos, B for the latest on the Ventana Wildlife Society’s Sanctuary in Big Sur, to Raptor Persecution UK for following the most horrendous crimes against wildlife, to Sassa Bird for her notes about the NE European ospreys and storks, to Hawk Mountain for their great tracking of the migrating birds, and to all the streaming cams and individuals who put information on FB and images. I am grateful.

Beau returns, Seattle trio fledge…Tuesday in Bird World

11 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

I know that we are all still taking in a world without ‘Jackie and Shadow’. I know that many of you were very attached to M15 and Harriet – everyone had their favourites but Jackie and Shadow symbolised persistence, resilence, and hope to me. Every year they struggled with their eggs and we sat and watched Jackie encrusted in snow and ice praying that the eggs would hatch – just please, let them hatch one more time. I was lucky enough to see Spirit, Sunny and Gizmo, and Sandy and Luna hatch at the Big Bear nest – with Shadow and his sticks and Jackie a devoted mother. Jackie will never be forgotten. She is loved by so many people around the world who, today, are still feeling lost and gutted.

Every news agency is developing a tribute to Jackie – she meant that much. https://youtu.be/4cHVisPKRg8?

Most people are asking if Shadow will get a new mate. Just pause for a moment. How many mates has Connie had at Captiva? M15 at SW Florida was Harriet’s mate and then F23, etc. That should answer the question.

This subadult eagle, KD1, nearly five years old, has been spending time. She is on the nest and then on the perch later.

Video of Shadow with his beautiful morning chortling and KD1. https://youtu.be/XyNnd3p6nLU?

The news that I hoped to announce on Monday is that Harry and Sally, the Seattle osprey couple followed by Ping Shen, have fledged three osplets!


“Here in Seattle, we have liftoff! I’m sure they’ve been flying for a day or two but I saw two of the three take lovely practice flights circling around the nest today. Seems fairly certain the third has also flown though I didn’t witness it today. Harry and Sally fledged all three this year! So wonderful to see, and to see this pair once more, after following so closely last year. I’ll continue to check in until they leave, but all good out here in the Northwest…”

There is some good news. In Cumbria, at RSPB Campfield Marsh, three osplets fledged. This is the very first time that ospreys have bred and the first time that osplets have flown from a nest at Campfield Marsh. This is fantastic news.

At the NE Florida nest of Beau and Gabby, Beau has returned. All of the cameras are now operational.

Waiting for hatch for the Olympic Park White-bellied Sea Eagles, Dad and Lady. I keep checking and I am not very patient. Judy Harrington has noticed a possible small pip through the membrane.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Monday 10th August 2026
Today’s main talking point is the extreme aggression shown by the two chicks as they competed for food, particularly with the first fish where Juniper suffered a sustained attack by Amber, being divebombed and struck repeatedly and then forced overboard. Both are ravenous, in the grip of hyperphagia, and while we can expect to see more of this behaviour, at later fish deliveries both chicks were on the nest without attacking each other. Louis brought four fish today, Juniper got the first and Amber the other three, so perhaps he will step up his fishing and have more six- and eight-fish days. The Nest Two tally now stands at four hundred. Dorcha wasn’t seen today, her last sighting was at 16.18 

on Saturday, but both Garry LV0 and Aurora 536 were around, Garry brought her a fish taking the Nest One tally to one hundred and ninety six. The weather was settled and should remain so, with light cloud, light winds, an overnight low of 11°C and a high tomorrow of 21°C.Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/0gDaRa0Tt2o N2 Huge fight breaks out as Juniper gets the first fish 1142.40(slo-mo zoom repeat)
https://youtu.be/iX41WsaOYlY N2 Amber’s waiting and gets fish two 11.56.22https://youtu.be/CrwvZ97vsBc N2 Amber gets the third fish 13.03.14https://youtu.be/X2A7PszFOp4 N2 Amber gets the fourth fish, Juniper loses out again 14.50.38https://youtu.be/E57ODE9Ou8w N1 Garry brings a fish for Aurora 15.17.58


You’re invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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There is concern growing for the Big Sur Condor Release area as wildfires are encroaching. From Kelly Sorenson:

August 10, 2026
Dear Mary,On Saturday, the Timber Fire began burning in the mountains above Big Sur and has already closed access to our California Condor Sanctuary. Firefighters continue to battle the blaze in extremely rugged terrain, and we are monitoring conditions closely.
 
Although our staff cannot currently reach the Sanctuary, we’ve immediately shifted into the emergency response plans we’ve developed over many years of working in fire-prone landscapes. Our team is actively evaluating conditions and preparing, if necessary, to safely release California Condors 868 and 340, who are currently recovering from lead poisoning in our on-site release facility.
 
At this time, neither condor is in immediate danger, and any decision to release them will be based on conditions at the Sanctuary and what is safest for the birds. We have planned for situations like this, and our staff is in close communication with fire officials and our agency partners should conditions change.
 
Wildfire is one of the realities of conserving wildlife in the rugged landscapes of California. While we can’t control the fire, we can prepare for it, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. We’re grateful for the firefighters and first responders working to protect Big Sur, and we’ll continue to closely monitor the situation.
 
We’ll keep you informed as the situation develops. In the meantime, you can watch the Sanctuary and follow the condors through our live Condor Cams.Read Condor (340) and Condor 868’s full bios California Condors 340 and 868 recuperating from lead poisoning inside our Big Sur Release Facility on August 10, 2026. 

Thank you for your concern. We appreciate your support and will share another update as soon as we know more.
 
 
With gratitude,


Kelly Sorenson
Executive Director

Please keep everyone in the area of wildfires and all the wildlife in your prayers and send them positive energy. We have fires burning in Canada and they are growing in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia.

This image has been circulating all evening. I do not know who to thank as it was shared by so many, but it is an image of Jackie as an eaglet in the Big Bear nest with her parents.

Good advice.

Breakfast has not arrived. Is Clarke having trouble finding fish today?

In Estonia, Urmas is feeding the storklets fish baskets on the nest. Urmas ringed the male down at the stream with the fish baskets but the adults have had trouble foraging and he is being the fish fairy to their storklets.

Blue NC0 from the Loch of the Lowes, who lost her nest when her mate Laddlie LM12, died is on the Alyth SS osprey platform with Clyde. Now this is interesting. I am hoping for a pair bond before migration.

Thank you so much for being with us today. We are heading out to Wildlife Haven in about twenty minutes. It is part of the ‘get outside move’ for the remainder of the summer when the temperature cooperates. Please continue to take care of yourself. Jackie’s death has impacted each and every one of us in ways that we might not recognise. So take it easy.

Thank you to Geemeff and Ping Shen for their great contributions today. To those who post on FB with images and information, I am grateful. Also, a big thanks to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to follow the lives of our raptor families.

Jackie soars over the Rainbow Bridge

10 August 2026

The only news for today is a tribute coming in the coming days.

Heartbroken, but our girl flies free with no more pain.

Patient Update: Bald Eagle 26-519

It is with profound sadness that we share that Patient 26-519 passed away in the early hours of this morning, following more than three weeks of intensive medical care.

Over the past several days, her condition continued to deteriorate despite intensive treatment and the combined efforts of our veterinary team and consulting specialists. She remained critically ill, receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, and around-the-clock monitoring in our intensive care unit.

Throughout her time at Ojai Raptor Center, every decision was guided by the available medical evidence, her welfare, and our responsibility to do what was in her best interest.

Her remains have been transferred into the care of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

We know this news will be deeply felt by the many thousands of people around the world who have followed her journey, hoped alongside us, prayed for her, and supported the people caring for her.

Our team is heartbroken. It has been an extraordinary privilege to care for her.

We ask for patience and kindness as our staff process this loss. We are working closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and will provide a more comprehensive statement including additional information on her treatments and test results.

To protect our staff and community during this difficult time, comments on this post have been turned off.

To everyone who cared about Patient 26-519, thank you. Thank you for your messages, your prayers, your encouragement, and for standing beside our team throughout these past weeks. We are deeply grateful for the way Patient 26-519 brought people together through a shared love of wildlife.

Please take time to heal.

Thank you to everyone who donated for Jackie’s medical expenses and to all those, from the very beginning, who aided in her transportation to Ojai Raptor Centre. My biggest gratitude to those who cared for our dear Jackie and who sought to find out what was causing her illness. This has been a very difficult time for them.

Jackie’s packed cell count rises to 9%, 4th hatch fledges at Blackbush…Late Sunday in Bird World

9 August 2026

We had a fabulous day at the English Gardens – ice creams and a pup cup, too! The weather cooperated fully – blue skies, nice temperatures, and a sweet breeze. Everyone was hoping to catch a glimpse of hummingbirds.

Geemeff kindly sent me yesterday’s summary and videos from Loch Arkaig that went MIA on my computer. Thank you, Geemeff.

Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Saturday 8th August 2026
Both of yesterday’s missing key characters turned up today, and both brought fish – Garry LV0 delivered one fish for Aurora 536 on Nest One, taking his tally to one hundred and ninety five, and Dorcha delivered a fish to Nest Two where both of her chicks were waiting, taking her season’s tally to five. Louis also brought fish, he delivered three fish to the nest, getting his toes bitten in the process and taking his season’s tally to three hundred and eighty eight. The Nest Two total now stands at three hundred and ninety three. It was wet and windy today, with strong gusts of wind that caused Louis on one occasion to have to come around again to land with his fish, but that didn’t stop a pair of Hooded Crows from invading the nest in the chicks’ absence, rooting around looking for fish scraps. They didn’t find much, those hungry chicks don’t leave a lot. The rain is forecast to continue, heavy overnight with a gentle breeze and a low of 12°C, changing to light rain tomorrow and a high of 17°C, with more ‘gentle breezes’ which tend to roar through the branches and shake the nests.  

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/khpjbDz2gI4 N2 First Hoodies of the season invade the nest 08.47.54https://youtu.be/5NlSTi1jkS4 N1 He’s still here! Garry brings Aurora a fish 09.42.33https://youtu.be/vF4vmFY53pQ N2 Amber pecks Louis’ toes before taking fish one 10.43.59https://youtu.be/4w0KU9Wfej0 N2 Louis has difficulty landing in the wind with fish two 15.53.57https://youtu.be/7lXVflUIVcQ N2 She’s still here! Dorcha brings fish three 16.18.56https://youtu.be/qHJ5KL72TdI N2 Juniper flies over from the Scots Pine but Amber gets fish four 18.59.04

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

The Stellar’s Eagle, who is a long distance from its home in Siberia, has been hanging around Newfoundland and Maine for a few years.

Screenshot

We must take every day at a time. Jackie’s red blood count has now risen from 6% to 9%. This is not the 30% it should be so she remains critical. Please keep sending her the best energy you have and the best wishes for her team to find the underlying cause of her anemia.

The baby at Blackbush Beach Osprey Platform in Prince Edward Island has fledged – congratulations to Mum and Dad who have done the impossible in a year of tragedy. They fledged four!!!!!!!!!

Now the siblings are not being friends (were they ever?) – as competition for fish arrivals result in some scrappy fights. It is all good. They will need these skills – the taking of the fish from another – in the world beyond the nest.

All four are really healthy – or so it appears.

Fish continue to arrive for Wensi at the Hellgate Canyon nest of Iris and Clarke.

Blackbush and Hellgate Canyon thrived. Clarke was able to overcome some adverse fishing conditions – thankfully- to provide for Iris and Wensi and himself. Other areas have human-caused issues that are killing all the osprey – namely the industrial vacuuming up of Menhaden.

There is the first egg for the Redcliffe Peregrine Falcons.

We will be looking for a hatch with the White-bellied Sea Eagles and in the coming weeks eggs at Port Lincoln and at Orange. And don’t forget – 367 Collins Street! We already have three little osplets at the Osprey Environmental Centre. The focus is shifting to the Southern Hemisphere.

Take care everyone.

Thank you to Geemeff for resending her report from yesterday at Loch Arkaig, to all those who posted information and images on FB, and the owners of the cameras where we view the lives of these birds.

Pip/Hatch watch for Sydney WBSE…Sunday in Bird World

9 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

We really hope that you are enjoying the weekend and that instead of being glued to the screens, you are actually outside listening to the birds! I have made it my mission to ensure that outside of sleeping, 50% of our time is spent outside. This includes just relaxing on the deck with Toby, listening to the birds in the trees and at the feeders. Don’s mood is much better, and that makes my life much easier! Tomorrow we are going out to Wildlife Haven for a picnic and to check to see if we can see Milan, the Mississippi Kite who became an ambassador in 2014. Until winter closes in on us, I hope that this routine can continue.

We are on pip/hatch watch at the WBSE in the Olympic Park in Sydney.

On Ferris Akel’s Saturday ‘tour’, he found the Ps on the Cornell Campus squeeing loudly for the adults to bring food. They are, by the way, very well fed! They were so loud!

The Ps are strong flyers. They appear to be in excellent condition.

Dorcha did not migrate from Loch Arkaig, but she did take a 34-hour spa break. Many of the females do this before starting to feed their chicks and themselves up for migration.

If you need to get caught up on the eagles and the eaglets – yes, there are eaglets, check out the videos from SK Hideaways this past week!!!!!!!!!!

SK Hideaways Videos, Week of 2 August 2026

FOBBVCAM Eagles ~ Big Bear Valley, CA
Courtesy FOBBVCAM | Friends of Big Bear Valley
Resident male: Shadow (unbanded) since May 2018. Estimated hatch year: 2014
Resident female: Jackie (unbanded) since September 2016. Estimated hatch year: 2012
Sandy hatched 4 April 2026, Luna hatched 5 April 2026
Nest Cam:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE
Wide View Cam (Cam 2):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41eq4VzCYc4
Live Recap & Observations:  https://bit.ly/4wGjwVg

Shadow Shares Twin Pines with Many Visitors ~ Keeps His Distance (2026 Aug 7-8)
Seems lots of the visiting sub-adults want to be wherever Shadow is. Three of them came to Twin Pines while he perched ~ all of them on lower branches. Shadow, the banded sub-adult, and another roosted there overnight. Shadow distanced himself whenever any visitor attempted to perch near him.  When he flew off in the morning, the banded sub-adult followed. 
Keep sending those positive thoughts to Shadow and Jackie in these unsettling times.
Video: https://youtu.be/uWsYElJ_Ph4

Shadow & Sub-Adult on Snag ~ Another Sub-Adult on Nest, Has Shadow’s Snortle (2026 Aug 6)
The drama continues in Jackie and Shadow’s habitat. A banded sub-adult joined Shadow on the Lookout Snag ~ he flew off within a minute. Later, a different sub-adult ~ likely a male ~ visited the nest for over a half-hour. This eagle is about 3 years old and likely male, given the size and higher voice. The visitor practiced his chortle several times while on the nest. He sounded very much like Shadow. 

This is an interesting time in Big Bear as many sub-adults and juveniles pass through the area. Most will likely move on within a couple months.
Video: https://youtu.be/Uh0ObVH6eQs
Shadow Roosts with Sub-Adult Overnight ~ Chats in A.M. Before Departing for the Day (2026 Aug 4-5)
Shadow stopped by the Cactus Snag before retiring to the roost tree. The sub-adult did the same a bit later. They remained there overnight. In the morning, Shadow chortle-snortled good morning and then zipped off to one of his summertime hangouts while the sub-adult remained in the habitat. So grateful for any glimpses of Shadow, though his summertime routine could make him even more elusive. As I view the habitat, I continue to envision Jackie back there ~ strong and healthy. 
Video: https://youtu.be/Zp5ELqUjQm4


Sydney White-Bellied Sea Eagles~ Australia ~ Lady & Dad (mated pair since 2016)
Courtesy Sea-EagleCAM@BirdLife Australia Discovery Centre, Sydney Olympic Park (https://www.sea-eaglecam.org/video.html)
Nest cam also at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nw4pdgy3-U0

Dad Not Shy About Asking Lady for Egg Time ~  Pip Watch Approaches (8 Aug 2026)
As always, Lady and Dad begin the day with a honking duet. Dad has never been subtle about his desire to incubate and this year has been no exception. With pip watch in progress for SE37 and SE38, both parents are eager to have a front nest seat to the ultimate hatch. 
Video: https://youtu.be/VwZuMcjzEp4

Trempealeau Eagles ~ Wisconsin ~ Mrs. T, Mr. T, TE6, and TE7 (hatched early April, fledged July 12)
Courtesy Raptor Resource Project | explore.org
Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bMrSm0Ap20

2nd Movement of TE6 & TE7 Symphony in Squee Major with Breakfish (2026 Aug 4)
As promised, TE6 and TE7 delivered a complete and quite lengthy 2nd movement of their Symphony in Squee Major. We were spellbound as they squee’d flawlessly through fish delivery, mantling, fish stealing, and consumption. They really are the consummate performers. Enjoy.
Video: https://youtu.be/K9MnUOqkGE8

TE6 & TE7 Symphony in Squee Major, 1st Movement w/ Intermission (2026 Aug 3)
TE6 and TE7 promised us music at dawn, but opted for a photo op instead. They promised a complete performance tomorrow. I couldn’t complain, though, as we were all gifted stunning views of these two gorgeous eaglets, thank to the fabulous Raptor Resource Project cam ops pros. Very grateful, indeed. 
Video: https://youtu.be/eAffr2dcQ5k

Sub-Adult Snags a Whopper ~ Adult Looks for Steal ~ Eaglets Explore (2026 Aug 2)
A sub-adult entered the territory and found a big fish on the shore. As s/he flew away with the catch, an adult flew behind and perched just above the sub-adult, apparently waiting for the youngster to present an opportunity for a steal. Scavenging and stealing is not just for juvenile and immature eagles ~ adults also use this survival tactic. The sub-adult did not slip up and the adult flew off, leaving the young eagle to eat in peace. 

Meanwhile, 4-month old eaglets, TE6 and TE7, are acing flight school and exploring their beautiful Trempealeau playground. While one lounged near the camera, the other explored. Cam ops was in top form following that eaglet on its adventure. 
Video:  https://youtu.be/sX9yOLYmj80
Eaglets TE6 & TE7 Get Breakfast ~ One Makes It Grab & Go (2026 Jul 31)


Mr. and Mrs. T’s 2026 eaglets are about 16 weeks old, having hatched on an alternate nest this year ~ one without a camera. They fledged 3 weeks ago and have graced us with their presence on the nest with a camera. On this morning, Mr. T (I think) brought a nice big fish for breakfast. We watch as one eaglet mantles and the other squees wildly, as we’d expect. What we didn’t expect was that the mantling eaglet took off with the fish. Clearly grab and go training is going very well for this little rascal. 
Video: https://youtu.be/k5p6vhUWfN0

Two Harbors Eagles ~  Catalina Island, CA ~ Cholyn & Chase (28 years old; mated pair for 23 years)
Courtesy Institute for Wildlife Studies | explore.org | Two Harbors Eagles Cam Ops
Overlook Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yx7RKxpyzQ
Eagle Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5T2eHM8tcI

Cholyn & Chase ~ A Lesson in Not Sweating the Small Stuff (2026 Aug 5)
At 28 years young, Cholyn and Chase have much wisdom to impart. Here are 17 minutes of Channel Islands royalty taking life as it comes ~ being in the moment. 

This was a special day ~ Cholyn and Chase were mostly inseparable and cam ops was right there with them. Hope you enjoy these moments of calm and take a break from whatever drama or trauma may challenge you today. 
Video: https://youtu.be/wpetZNAdRPY
Cholyn & Chase ~ 28 Years Young ~ Joined at the Wing for 23 Years (2026 Aug 2)
Cholyn and Chase spent the day moving from one favorite perch to another. Whether they were perched together or apart, they kept eyes on each other and chatted across the habitat. This beautiful couple of 23 years is full of vitality, spunk, and devotion to one another. Maybe that’s what keeps them young. 
Video: https://youtu.be/0hmn5ixc4WY

The little osprey that was removed from one of the Tweed Valley nest has been rehabilitated, has grown and is strong. He was returned to the nest along with some fish and both of the osplets were ringed.

What about the eaglet Snow whose nest collapsed at Traverse City, Michigan? Here is some news and also the plans to expand North Sky, where Snow was initially cared for: https://youtu.be/NaLfUp0ssG8?

There are areas in the world where the ospreys did so well this season. Rutland Water was one of those!

We are waiting for the fourth chick at Blackbush Beach Club in Prince Edward Island to fledge – the other three are doing well and fish are plentiful. When so many nests could only struggle to fledge one chick, with so many having no chicks survive if there was any breeding at all, Blackbush is one of the shining stars of the North American osprey 2026 season.

The chicks are amazingly cordial – they know more fish are coming. Food security not food stress.

C22 enjoying a nice fish at Charlo.

At Hellgate Canyon, Iris and Wensi slept at the nest – Iris on the perch and her beloved only osplet, Wensi, in the nest.

They were waiting for the breakfast fish from Clarke and he did not disappoint. No matter the weather or the water conditions, Clarke tends to bring in the fish! What a guy.

Mary Cheadle runs the most amazing fundraisers for Loch Arkaig and The Woodland Trust. This one is for the calendar. The information is below. Postage is higher outside the UK. There will be another ‘grand’ fundraiser with books coming up! I love to donate to help out – I am so impressed how much can be raised when the donations can be as little as 3 GBP!

Geemeff sent me her latest news and it has gone down some deep dark hole in my computer. Apologies to Geemeff and to you. I will send today’s report out later tonight.

Thank you so much for being with me today. We are so anxious to get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Those days of having heat domes and being stuck inside have been inspirational in getting out and enjoying nature.

Please take care! If you have any raptor news, please let me know. You can leave a comment – I do get around to checking those, but not nearly as often these days as I should. Your patience is so appreciated.

Thank you to SK Hideaways for those great videos, Ferris Akel for tracking down the Ps, to everyone else who sent me news or posted information and images on FB, and the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch the challenges our favourite bird families face daily.

Has Dorcha fledged?…Late Saturday in Bird World

8 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

Friday was a busy day. The plumbers have almost finished making our main bath ‘accessible’ in case Don needs mobility aids. They were working hard today, and it was often loud, so Don went with Ann to our Zoo, and he got to see Lumi, the little lynx that was rehabilitated by Wildlife Haven. It was exciting, as they had missed seeing Lumi on three previous occasions. This evening, Don’s second cousin, a budding Vancouver photographer, was here visiting her Mum, and Susan agreed to do some photos for us at King’s Park. It was ideal, and there was more – we had some photos taken near a waterfall and pool where Toby had his first swim!!!!!!! I am going to get him a kiddie pool. You would have thought that he went swimming every day – Toby is a real duck.

Susan will edit the images but she did send us one.

As you are aware, Jackie’s latest red blood count has dropped below 10%. She has returned to the critical care unit and has to have oxygen. I feel for this beloved eagle. Without asking you, I am pretty certain that each of us would love to see her fly back to the nest to be with Shadow. The truth is – she is hanging on to life. I have seen the craziest comments – like let her fly up to Shadow, give her another transfusion. First of all, she can’t fly. Secondly, a second blood transfusion is very dangerous. I believe that, at this point, we have to trust the highly qualified vet team and Jackie to know whether she has the strength to continue fighting. Some of you will recall that at the end of June, Jackie’s behaviour was a bit off. She had a fight with Shadow over a fish. She had to have been sick then. The team are desperately seeking answers and getting more clues daily but our girl is more than extremely sick.

No matter what happens, I will be forever grateful that Jackie used all the energy she had to bring two beautiful eaglets into the world, Sandy and Luna, with Shadow this year. I suspect she was ill at the time, and that must have really taken its toll on her body. Poor thing. If it is to be, then I hope she soars into the ether with Sandy Speers, who loved Jackie so much, and that Shadow, like M15, finds another very good mate. Until then, I continue to hope for Jackie’s full recovery.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Friday 7th August 2026

Today was heavy with fish deliveries but light on key players – neither Dorcha nor Garry LV0 turned up today. Aurora spent a little time on Nest One but on her last appearance this evening just perched silently before flying away, clearly Garry wasn’t in the neighbourhood. The Nest One fish total remains at one hundred and ninety four. Louis however was very much in evidence, delivering eight fish to his two chicks who were stuffed so full, neither turned up for the eighth fish and he took it away again. The Nest Two total now stands at three hundred and eighty nine, four of which were brought by Dorcha. Has she left on migration? It would be an early departure for her, she usually waits until the chicks are around seventy five days old, and today Juniper and Amber are sixty seven and sixty five days old respectively.  She has been known to stay away from the nest for a day or two before leaving, popping in occasionally, so perhaps we’ll see her tomorrow. It was very wet today with heavy rain showers throughout the day, and the rain will continue lightly overnight with a low of 13°C, then heavy again tomorrow with a high of 17°C.

Today’s videos:

https://youtu.be/u8OvfLOFDDI N2 Juniper crash lands too late – Amber’s already got fish one 06.24.08https://youtu.be/EKjatdnyNxI N2 Juniper gets fish two and doesn’t let go 07.39.56https://youtu.be/X2qE9z_sP5A N2 Louis waits with fish three on an empty nest 08.44.00https://youtu.be/oThXmsFRh2Y N2 Amber’s alone on the nest waiting for fish four 10.15.20https://youtu.be/Y2AthKRU0FI N2 Again it’s Amber who gets fish five 13.18.03https://youtu.be/Y6UGSEGtJdg  N2 Fish number six is a very large, very lively trout 18.19.16https://youtu.be/wHjquYUZyP8 N2 Is an intruder around when Louis brings fish seven? 19.33.20https://youtu.be/2CBec3aUa9U N1 Aurora waits silently then departs as Garry doesn’t show 20.05.48https://youtu.be/V030Nw9v4jo N2 Louis takes fish eight away again as no one’s there 21.29.00 (zoom)

Everyone’s invited to join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and you’re all welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

Geemeff sends us a good news story – boy do we need it.

“A remarkable story – this little rescued nestling has gone on to have a long and well-travelled life!”

https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/26439373.hastings-blackbird-rescued-15-years-ago-found-newcastle

I love Blue 33 – everyone knows that – and his mate Maya. A lovely image of two of the fledglings from this year.

I am so proud of the individuals who are stepping up to stop the gill net fishing of Menhaden. There will be a survey that can be sent in to a meeting in November. I will send that link, but please educate yourself on the impact of this vacuuming of fish and the use of spotter planes has had on the entire ecosystem, including our dear ospreys dying before our eyes. Many have lost their businesses as well to save 196 jobs at Reedsville, Virginia.

Viki is still feeding three ospreys including that fledgling! She writes, “Indeed, your language is nothing compared to my anger language. ONE flipping living chick in 3 flipping years. Fed this morning. On the search for another box of bait to keep it up. Good to know that they learn to fish at migration.”

Viki was worried that the chick would not be taught to fish so I sent her a couple of articles. There are no fish for the ospreys – the nests were in sight of her porch. She is distraught but determined – like those fighting against a 0- 50% reduction because no one knows how many fish Omega are taking. It is the most frustrated I have been in years. So when the time comes to step up and speak, I hope you will join me.

George and Hope are at the Osprey House Environmental Centre in Griffins, Australia. They have three lovely osplets this year. All very healthy!

The West Midlands (no streaming cams) had a very good year for ospreys. Congratulations. Here is the total for the 2026 class:

Good news out of Rutland – chick wasn’t lost, just looking over the territory!

Wensi follows Iris to the nest to claim a fish! Listen to dear Iris call her baby. https://youtu.be/pG2fvUB51aA?

C22 slept on the nest at Charlo and has been flying around Saturday morning with Chloe – always heading back to the nest in hope of fish! Doing well.

The fledglings are all eating at Blackbush Beach Resort in Prince Edward Island, Canada.

I was very distressed this morning to see that there are proposals for an upgrade at the park near where I live. Our mayor doesn’t like geese, apparently. So this year they culled the eggs and greased others to get rid of the population. I think they don’t know much about geese or ducks. People bring their families to see the wildlife. Why not hire a few high school students during the season to power-spray the sidewalks? It would allow the families to continue to enjoy the ducks and geese; paths would be cleaner, and the wildlife would have the right to their nesting spots they have used for aeons. 3.4 million is the cost. We have lots of crime now, lots of people who are homeless with drug issues…our City is rapidly becoming not a great place to live. Many blame it on the current group of suits that are at City Hall, not just the mayor.

I agree. We need to be outside more and not on our screens. One artist is hand-drawing 1,000 birds to try and get us to do just that. But how would an app keep us off our phones? Please read.

“Hansen, a renowned ornithological illustrator and author, has a monumental task – a hand-painted compendium of every one of the roughly 1,000 bird species ever recorded from the US and Canada, including those found in waters up to 200 miles from shore, Hawaiian birds not included. When finished, it will complete the visual backbone of an app called Flock, whose mission, compared with that of most apps, is quietly subversive.

For rather than seeking to monopolize and monetize its users’ attention, it deftly employs elements of computer gaming and social networking to draw people outward, into the world of birding, with the broader aim of cultivating a community of conservationists.”

The ornithological artist drawing 1,000 birds by hand – all for an app that wants you off your phone

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/08/birds-artist-flock-app-california?CMP=share_btn_url

am signing off. We are going outside today. Rain is predicted for the beginning of the week and today the temperatures will go up to a wonderful 23 C. Take care all. I hope you are well.

Thank you to Geemeff for their wonderful summary and videos from Loch Arkaig, the UK Osprey Info with Jeff Kear, to all those who post on FB, to Susan Thompson for the great photos at King’s Park yesterday, and to the owners of the streaming cams that allow us to watch our bird families. We are so very grateful to each and every one of you. Thank you as always to The Guardian for including interesting wildlife stories every day.

Send a note of encouragement to those caring for Jackie!

Hello Everyone,

Simply one note today. The staff and volunteers at the Ojai Raptor Centre who are caring for our beloved Jackie would appreciate cards and letters of encouragement as they strive to get our beloved Big Bear Bald Eagle Matriarch back home.

Here are the details:


Want to Send a Note to Patient 26-519 or Our Team?

Over the past few days, several people have asked if they can mail a card or note of encouragement for Patient 26-519 or for the team caring for her. The answer is absolutely! We would be honoured to receive your cards and messages, and we’ll display them at the Centre for our team to see. Your words of encouragement have meant more to us during these past few weeks than you may realise. If you’d like to send something, please mail it to: Ojai Raptor Centre Attn: Patient 26-519 P.O. Box 182 Oak View, CA 93022

Thank you for caring so deeply about wildlife and about the people working every day to give these animals the very best care possible.

Thursday with Wensi

6 August 2026

Hello Everyone,

I don’t know how you feel but having Wensi fledge and then return to the nest just made my Wednesday. Today, Wensi has been fed on the nest, spent time on the pole in the river, and is perfecting her flying skills.

If you missed the hour-long talk about this year at Hellgate Canyon, Dr Ericke Green stated that he believed that Wensi is a female. That made me so happy. Iris’s DNA – strong survival DNA along with luck – has kept her alive for more than thirty years. Indeed, counting from the time Iris first bred on the hydro pole at Missoula before the nest where she is currently, meant that thirty is the youngest she could be. It is more likely she is thirty-three or thirty-four. My goodness. Dr Green also assured people that the fish that Clarke had brought to the nest were sufficient for Iris to remain healthy during the incubation and hatch periods. You might have noticed those huge fish recently. As the waters get warmer, Clarke is bringing in suckers that weigh 3-4 lbs, much more than he weighs. Everyone agreed that Clarke is an incredible fishing partner for Iris. He has also brought in Mountain Trout.

At any rate, I hope you enjoy these screen captures from today:

Clark brought in a very early fish for breakfast before the day gets hot.

Still eating nearly 40 minutes after they began feasting on the fish.

Amazing Clarke. He bonded with Iris last year but it was too late to breed. He also brought Iris fish last year. So glad he returned successfully this year. He is an incredible Dad.

Wensi continues to practice her flying to and from the pole on the river.

I wonder what Wensi is saying to Mama Iris.

What a magical year it has been. I really suggest you watch this amazing osprey family and smile. We never know what will happen next. We know that Iris’s favourite return date is 7 April, so I know that all eyes will be on this nest in 2027. I pray both she and Clarke return safely.

Sadly, the second chick from Colonial Beach that was electrocuted did not make it through its surgery. This is the chick that was electrocuted on the pole.

‘PB’ reports: Blackbush 8/1/26 FLEDGE 8:27:17 for one of oldest chicks. “6:39:50 the amazing fisher dad delivers headless flounder for breakfish. Mom feeds all 4 chicks together. 7:32:16 the chicks watch mom tidying up the nest. lots of hovering going on….8:26:40 The chick that is about to fledge looks back at all its siblings to say “watch this”.”

Jackie has now undergone surgery, including a bone marrow biopsy. Ojai Raptor Centre is trying desperately to find what is making our girl sick. She came out of the surgery fine.

Geemeff’s Woodland Trust daily summary for Loch Arkaig Thursday 6th August 2026

It was a very slow fish day today – no fish arrived on camera on Nest One, although Aurora had a nicely rounded crop, so Garry’s tally remains at one hundred and ninety four. Louis only brought two fish, taking the Nest Two tally to three hundred and eighty one, Juniper got the first and Amber the second, and Dorcha had to fend for herself. There were one or two intruder alarms but no one caught on nest cam, apart from an intruder so small Aurora didn’t notice it – a Willow Warbler paid a brief visit to Nest One, and the only other item of note was Amber flying around with a chunk of wood caught in her talons until she landed on the nest and managed to free herself. After some overnight rain, the weather was settled today but it’s raining heavily at the time of filing this report (half past midnight) and heavy rain with light winds is forecast to continue through the night and tomorrow, with a low of 12°C and a high of 16°C.Today’s videos:https://youtu.be/iHiyC7yBkWM N2 Nest’s empty when Louis arrives with the first fish so he waits patiently 08.16.15https://youtu.be/sBTb1u_A2vU N2 Amber flies with a chunk of wood stuck in her talons 08.41.25https://youtu.be/bqwpslScm7w N2 Dorcha’s calls aren’t answered so she departs leaving Amber still calling 11.16.49https://youtu.be/e4uGZcg5Dfo N1 Aurora doesn’t notice a little Willow Warbler paying a visit 17.21.18  (zoom)https://youtu.be/AN4rUYXz-aU N2 Finally! A second fish arrives, and Amber steals it off Juniper 18.59.01https://youtu.be/wEFctw2jz1g N1 Aurora gets fed up calling in vain and departs 19.31.09 Bonus watch – An 

Osprey-eye look at a migration route from Perthshire to Africa:https://youtu.be/bu_fiEUCti0y


Come and join the friendly community at Woodland Trust’s Osprey forum, it’s fun, free and everyone’s welcome:

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/osprey-cam

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Thank you so much for being with us today. Take care of yourselves. See you soon.

Thank you to Pam Breci and Geemeff, to the owners of the streaming cam at Hellgate Canyon (The Montana Osprey Project along with Cornell Bird Lab) and everyone who posted information on FB. I am very grateful.