Bird Watching: They're ba-a-ack. Osprey season begins., 1 by MargaretK

MargaretK wrote:


The local ospreys, known as "Dad" and "Big Hook" have been making regular trips to the nest for the past three weeks or more. Initially there wasn't any specific interaction between them - one, or occasionally both would come and land on the nest, or on one of the branches and stay for a brief time, then fly off. If the male and female's visits coincided, they would simply stand quietly together.

Over the last week, their visits have become more frequent and the nest is now rarely unoccupied. Big Hook has been bringing in nesting material to start building up the nest sides. I've seen both birds briefly snuggle down into a sitting position in the centre of the nest, as if to test how it feels. No-one has observed any mating yet, although I don't think it's too far off.

We're into winter here and our two most wintery months, July and August, are still to come. I believe that the Australian osprey season begins very early so that the chick/s can fledge before the intense heat of summer.

I hope this season is productive and above all, free of drama. It would be fantastic if this pair could successfully rear multiple chicks.

To kick off the new season, here's Dad coming in towards the nest the day before yesterday.