June 16 update….

 It’s been a busy weekend checking lots of nests and counting lots of chicks. Seems like a lot of three chick nests! I am happy to report that the nest where the territorial male was hit by a car and killed is doing well! Boy, in those first few days I didn’t feel very hopeful…but this female has done a fabulous job! She has a male that does bring a bit of food….perhaps one or two fish  a day….and the female leaves to get a fish when she needs to. The oldest chick will be three weeks old this week so those early days, when chicks are so vulnerable, is behind them. We think there are two chicks, but can’t totally rule out a smaller third chick. We have developed a great three person team to watch over them, so the nest is very well monitored. Thanks to Allison and Brenda for all their help, concern and dedication. As long time readers will remember, we had a similar situation last year, with a male that was injured just as the chicks were hatching. He was not killed but was in rehab for a long time. In the meantime another male, who we named KISA, stepped up to bring fish and even when the female disappeared, he brought food for the chicks. It was a very unusual behavior. And now we are seeing something similar. Tho this male seems to be interested in courting the female to secure this territory for the future. He has not fed chicks or delivered fish to them specifically…but delivers fish to the female. He also is still trying to copulate, tho it’s clearly too late for egg laying. I think behaviors are changing as the population grows and more males may be willing to help provide for chicks that aren’t his as a way to compete for a mate and territory. So, even after 30 years, I am still curious and still learning! We have seen other males near this nest, but they seemed more interested in the territory, than the female. She shooed them away. Lots of subtle signals between these birds. It sure is fun to watch! 

I also want to thank all the new volunteers who have stepped up to help me monitor some nests. I think we have some great folks that will be a wonderful addition to the team. 

One problem I am struggling with….with all the rain we are having, there are some nests that have sprouted some lush gardens!!!! And I cant see the chicks! HAHA…..