Raising Aussie Osprey #4

Wow she did get those feet up! Kind of like in Peter Pan when Wendy and the boys are learning to fly!

Well, the chick is now lifting off at least a couple of feet above the nest floor each time it exercises those increasingly impressive wings. It is an absolute joy to behold.

That's Mum in the nest.

Well Margaret, it doesn't seem like it will be long now. Lee

Lee, you're right. Any old time now.

The activity died down a little after this. The male brought a fish to the nest just as I was leaving, because the nest was completely in shadow.

The male went onto the branch where he frequently takes a fish. Thanks to the immeasurable generosity of a lady who lives close by, I was able to get very close to the male in the tree.

You should be able to see the area of the branch near his left foot that has had the bark worn off it from constant use. It is also discoloured by blood from the fish he brings there. From his position there he has a great view of the nest and gazed over there periodically to see what was going on.

Gazing intently at what's going on in the nest.

See you tomorrow

Splendid shots of the male. Lee

Fantastic shots Margaret, such beautiful birds!

Wonderful wonderful Margaret and that last shot of the male is wonderful!!!

Go Aussie Go! Well....wait until Marg is there. Great pix as always!

ducky

Great shots Margaret! He is such a handsome male!

The last TWO shots of the male! Wow check out those talons and beak. Ummmph - don't get any closer Margaret.

Ditto, ditto, ditto!! All I can add is WOW!!!!!

Great shots, Margaret ... Time is drawing nigh when Aussie first tests the wind beneath her wings. She will soon be soaring confidently above the waters of the Swan River as she learns to become self-sufficient. And, unknown to her will be the joy and excitement that she has brought, through you, to individuals thousands of miles away. Truly, a gift to us all ....... thank you !!!

I'm very please to see Aussie's progress. Nice that he has lift off now. Super sharp shot of papa, beautiful bird.

oooo, I bet he/she lifts off on Christmas. Even if you don't get a shot of that, you sure have given us wonderful pictures.

Elaine

I was thinking the same thing, what a great Xmas present that would be! Of course it will already be Xmas day there but still early.

Marvellous shots, the male seems to know you too, he would not be so comfortable if he didn't trust you. You may be some distance away but they will know of your presence.

Thanks folks. It really is getting exciting now (as if it hasn't been all along). This thread has grown as big as Aussie, so please join it over here: http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/935058/