Bird Watching: Osprey season 2010 - A new beginning., 0 by MargaretK

MargaretK wrote:
Thanks folks. The behaviour observed with this chick serves to demonstrate the raw, primitive instincts that exist in nature - and we humans aren't exempt. Who can explain why, in previous years it didn't occur. Madame X was telling me this afternoon that when Old Ma had three chicks, there was no sibling rivalry. Each was fed in turn and all three fledged.

This little one is precocious. I was watching this afternoon as yachts passed close by. Unlike Aussie and Harmony, who immediately flattened themselves to the nest floor in similar situations, it just sat there gazing on with interest. This one gazed skywards when a plane went over this afternoon, whereas the other two would have hit the deck.

Beautiful shots, Pete. And yes, I think you're fortunate to be away to have some space from recent events.

Interesting observations, Tiger. Thanks. Big Hook got her name by the big hook on her beak. After having watched her predecessor and "Dad" for several months, when BH came along, the first thing I noticed was that she was a large bird and that the hook on her beak was really long. I'm not sure how long Dad has been around. However, I've seen photos taken at the nest in 2005 and it's definitely him. Seeing him constantly for more than two years, his mannerisms, physical features and behaviours are completely recognisable. I think one way to confirm it is him year in, year out, would be to photograph his eyes. They really are quite different. Quite a subtle greyish yellow colour and I think he has a black spot within the iris of his right eye which would be suitable for ID purposes.

I'm going to have to leave posting shots from this afternoon until tomorrow, but here's one of the chick exercising its wings.