August 20...

It's been a while since I posted...busy checking on all those chicks! Some have ended up on the ground, some figured out how to get going on their own, some did not. One had to be placed in a neighbor nest since its home was on a cell tower...but it was cared for there until it was able to get back to its nest on its own. In another interesting twist, a chick moved herself to another nest where she was adopted by that family! She was not just visiting...she moved in! Interesting! And there are still a few chicks that have not fledged! I am trying to account for all chicks, but sometimes it's not possible. But we do try! Many chicks disperse this time of year, especially the males, tho we may see them again before they begin their migration. Some adult females are not being seen on the nests anymore and I am sure they have begun to head south. It's interesting how different the adult males behaviors are...some are so attentive, watching over their offspring, providing food whenever a food begging voice is heard. Others seem oblivious, ignoring the chorus of hungry voices. There are a variety of situations that have us concerned, so we watch over those birds carefully. I am so thankful for all of the people who have checked on the ospreys, alerted me to potential problems, and who take time out of their busy days to help assure the welfare of our winged friends.