| Author | Content |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:14 AM Post #8818913
| We have a chick!
I went to the nest this afternoon. Big Hook was sitting when I got there. I zeroed in on the nest when she moved and was astonished to see a chick. I don't know if there is a second chick - I couldn't see one, but I could only see one egg.
Here's my first shot of the new life.
If anyone wants to go back to what's been happening, here's a link to the previous thread. http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1215590/
This message was edited Sep 22, 2011 4:26 PM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:16 AM Post #8818914
| Big Hook had flown to a low branch on the pole branch and the proud father was keeping vigil from the top of the pole branch.
Another shot of the gorgeous little chick.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:18 AM Post #8818915
| Big Hook was gone for only a minute. Here she is coming back in for a landing. See how she lands with claws bunched into fists to avoid causing damage to eggs or chicks. She's actually landing extremely close to the chick.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:20 AM Post #8818916
| She quickly drew herself backwards. This shot was in a burst and therefore a split second after that last shot.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:22 AM Post #8818917
| After regaining her composure, she moved gently forward to start covering the chick and the egg.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 2:23 AM Post #8818918
| And to finish, a shot of Dad. When Big Hook was on the nest, he'd briefly leave the pole branch and do a quick fly around.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 22, 2011 2:38 AM Post #8818924
| That is wonderful! Congratulations! Chick is adorable. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 22, 2011 5:05 AM Post #8818986
| How wonderful, congratulations! I found myself keep coming back to look at the sweet chick! And Moma of course, and of Dad too. Great timing Margaret. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 5:07 AM Post #8818987
|
Thanks, Pelle and Kim. I gasped when I saw a chick when I was actually expecting to see eggs.
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
September 22, 2011 5:33 AM Post #8819007
| It's so Fluffy!!!!! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 6:00 AM Post #8819047
|
Isn't it just? I'd love to know just when it hatched. I'd like to think today, but no way of knowing, I guess. |
BeaHive
Dallas, OR (Zone 8a)
September 22, 2011 6:35 AM Post #8819086
| Exciting news! Yeah! |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
 September 22, 2011 6:36 AM Post #8819089
| Great pictures Margaret. That chick is adorable and mom and dad are beautiful. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 6:43 AM Post #8819092
| It's wonderful, isn't it, BeaHive and GG? I won't be able to go there tomorrow - how DARE people get married during Osprey season? Saturday, we're expecting brilliant weather and hopefully both Pete and I will be able to catch up there.
Just because I can't resist this beautiful bird, here's a shot of Dad as he sat atop the pole branch.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 22, 2011 6:57 AM Post #8819101
| Quoting: ... how Dare people get married during Osprey season? Tehehehehe. Maybe they wanna make 'baby chicks' too. lol Margaret. Dad is sooooooo pretty. lol |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
September 22, 2011 7:04 AM Post #8819114
| Glad that the nest seems deeper this year. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 22, 2011 7:51 AM Post #8819174
|
LOL, Kim. I think you've hit the nail on the head.
It does seem deeper than last year, Iris. Here's hoping for less sadness. |
Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
September 22, 2011 10:22 AM Post #8819427
| Congrats on the first hatch...great shots of the chick in the nest...yes Dad looks great! Nice shots Margaret! |
bootandall
Blenheim
New Zealand
 September 23, 2011 1:44 PM Post #8820900
| wonderful shots of your Osprey family, great view of the beautiful wee chick ,and egg. |
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
September 23, 2011 6:21 PM Post #8821198
| Oh, sure...hold those claws together to protect the chick...but don't worry if you knock it out of the nest...just kidding, Margaret. This is GREAT news! The baby is adorable. Hope the second one comes close behind so it will be similar in size to the firstborn. |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
September 23, 2011 8:48 PM Post #8821354
| Such great news. Lovely family. |
unsteady
Perth
Australia
September 23, 2011 9:30 PM Post #8821409
| Well great news everyone, I was down at the site yesterday afternoon for half an hour only. In that time mum and dad were quite active flying around. I clearly saw a single chick, HOWEVER when I got home and uploaded the pictures it was clear that two chicks were present in the nest!
The first photo shows mum landing on nest. You probably will struggle to see the tiny fluffy chick in the side of the nest in-front of mum. Unfortunately I don't have a teleconverter. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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unsteady
Perth
Australia
September 23, 2011 9:34 PM Post #8821416
| In the next photo I've done a severe crop and you can see two distinct tiny furry chicks in the lower centre of the photo - unfortunately they are so low they have a twig in front, but two heads discernible.
Unfortunately I left early as I got stung on the side of the face by a bee! Will have to be careful today...
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
September 24, 2011 2:53 AM Post #8821570
| That is really wonderful. I really feel this year will be much different than last year. Every year these parents will get better and better at raising chicks successfully. Not sure I can see them in the pic...maybe.
This message was edited Sep 24, 2011 5:55 AM |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
September 24, 2011 4:32 AM Post #8821642
| Fantastic news! |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
September 24, 2011 6:14 AM Post #8821732
| WOW ..I was gone for 3 weeks and look what happens...YAY...Great photos too Margaret |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 24, 2011 6:24 AM Post #8821742
| Oh I see the two darling chicks!!!! I saw them, I saw them. Wooohoooo!!! Oh Margaret, how is the bee sting coming along? I hope you are not feeling much pain from it? |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 24, 2011 10:26 AM Post #8822045
| Great news! |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
September 24, 2011 12:26 PM Post #8822164
| Rock on Chicks!
Boo Bee! |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom (Zone 9a)
September 24, 2011 12:37 PM Post #8822174
| Is that their names, Boo and Bee?
;-)
|
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 24, 2011 1:11 PM Post #8822201
|  |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
September 24, 2011 4:19 PM Post #8822475
| LOL |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
September 24, 2011 5:00 PM Post #8822522
| Splendid, looking forward to the events that will unfold, hopefully all joyful ones.
lol Resin, |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 24, 2011 5:13 PM Post #8822536
| I'm twisting my fingers anticipating the 3rd baby. |
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
September 24, 2011 5:29 PM Post #8822548
| Is there a third egg? |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 24, 2011 5:45 PM Post #8822572
| You bet, look. :) http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/fp.php?pid=8782522 |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
September 24, 2011 8:01 PM Post #8822729
| I do wish that plastic bag would disappear. |
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
September 25, 2011 4:20 AM Post #8822980
| I sure hope that third one comes quick. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:01 AM Post #8823002
| I was hoping to respond to everyone's comments individually, but time has really got away from me. I'm so glad you're all enjoying what's happening at the nest. I have even better new than that posted yesterday by Pete ... (drum roll) ...
THREE CHICKS!
We were supposed to have rain today and it actually did sprinkle for a few seconds, but then the sun came out, albeit in fits and starts. So I went to the nest to check if both chicks were OK and was pleasantly surprised to see three little darlings.
Dad spent nearly all his time on the pole branch or on the right hand branch leading from the nest, but flew to the other side of the river to catch a fish when Big Hook asked him to. He took his catch to his preferred branch outside Madam X's place and eventually brought the headless fish to Big Hook, who fed all three without favouring or ignoring one above the other.
Thanks for your concern about the bee sting, Lily_love. It didn't hurt me a bit, because it was Pete who was stung.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 25, 2011 5:12 AM Post #8823013
| Silly me! LOL I was jumping with joy with the news of the third chick, I even laughed harder at myself when I didn't even noticed of how different how Pete looks compared to our sweet Margaret. Sorry Pete and Margaret. Hope you will forgive me Pete. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:13 AM Post #8823014
|
This is from yesterday. One one chick is visible, but I love the way the parents are gazing at it.
Both Pete and I have been scouring the nest for signs of the third egg and our collective imaginations have been in overdrive. We both thought we could see things that might have been a discoloured or discarded egg, but it's just that bit too far to be able to see in that detail.
One thing Pete and I witnessed yesterday was Dad going after a Cormorant that was innocently flying below the nest, just above the water. Nothing unusual in that - Cormorants and Gulls fly underneath constantly. Well, who knows what it was about this one that Dad took a disliking to, but he plunged down from his perch on the pole branch in pursuit. We both heard an almighty splash (couldn't see the event because of vegetation). Dad came back up within just a few moments and we waited and waited to see if the Cormorant would re-emerge. It did, probably after a full minute, and flew, seemingly uninjured, southwards.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 25, 2011 5:15 AM Post #8823016
| I'm walking on nine cloud having seen the three babies all so pretty and healthy. Congratulations, let's pass the cigars everyone! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:18 AM Post #8823019
|
Kim, that's absolutely fine. I thought of you when I saw the three chicks this afternoon. All that finger wringing worth it. Likewise, GP, I am relieved that the three chicks have hatched within four days of each other. Gives the youngest a more level playing field.
Another shot from yesterday, showing the size of the fish that Dad had delivered - very much alive.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:23 AM Post #8823023
| Again from yesterday, Dad gazing at his young family from the pole branch.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:29 AM Post #8823027
| We're expecting lousy weather for the next week, but as usual, if there's a break from showers late afternoon, I'll head down there and will provide updates as I can. In the meantime, fingers crossed that Big Hook has learned to exercise more caution than last year. Watching her manoeuvre around the chicks, especially when she's got a fish clasped in her talons, always seems fraught with danger. She knocked one of the chicks upside down yesterday and it took it several minutes to right itself.
Another shot of Dad from yesterday.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
September 25, 2011 6:42 AM Post #8823132
| Congratulations you two. Glad Pete's sting didn't hurt your, Margaret. |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
September 25, 2011 6:51 AM Post #8823136
| Those chicks are adorable. I love the dark eye patches. It is hard to imagine that those tiny balls of fluff will grow into a large Osprey!!
Great pictures Margaret.
Thinking positive thoughts that all three babies will grow to be strong and healthy. Mom and Day may have to build an addition on to the nest when all begin growing!! LOL |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 7:15 AM Post #8823159
|
Thanks, Mrs Ed. Yes, I was glad it didn't hurt. Pete looked like he'd been in a title fight, his face was so swollen. Our bees are usually very placid, but there was one buzzing around me today and I removed myself for half a minute until it went elsewhere and the resident swarm has been very active. Also, I thought Big Hook was reacting to someone on the low path this afternoon, but having a look at my photos, she was concerned about a bee. Bees are one of the few things that perturb them. I've cropped this shot heavily to show the bee, just in front of her to the left of the picture.
GG, both Dad and Big Hook brought sticks in whilst I was there this afternoon.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
September 25, 2011 8:46 AM Post #8823256
| What proud parents! Really great news and let's hope these three all grow up well and strong. |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
September 25, 2011 10:31 AM Post #8823343
| What a wonderful surprise to be gone and on my return to see three chicks. Your photos are awesome Margaret. I do hope all three chicks survive. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 25, 2011 5:19 PM Post #8823770
| LOL, Marna, me too. Wondering how come Margaret didn't suffer Pete's bee sting. Pete, I hope you get to feel better. On the other hand, Margaret, are you sure that was bee's sting and not because Pete has an argrument with the Mrs.? LOL
All jokes aside, DH was stung by Yellow Jackets and he's really weary of those bees and others in general.
Margaret, it's so comforting to know both Ospreys are bringing more sticks back to the nest, while you were there photographing them. I was especially proud of Dad chasing at the Cormorrant -- just in case, no one is allowed by the babies, at least not until they can fend for themselves. Go Dad Osprey! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 25, 2011 5:41 PM Post #8823814
|
Let's hope for triple success, GP.
Welcome back, duc. Exciting stuff, eh?
IrisMA, I wish that plastic would disappear, too. They don't seem to be paying any attention to it now. Other thing on my mind. It'll be a real concern when the chicks start exploring the nest and playing with things.
The weather people got it right. We have showers. I'll still head down there this avo if there are even brief breaks.
|
Burd_Fotos
Sandusky, OH
September 25, 2011 7:20 PM Post #8824018
| Keep the fish coming! Great shots Margaret!! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 26, 2011 5:36 AM Post #8824395
| Thanks Burd.
It was cool and wet today, although the showers cleared by mid afternoon. I spent 2+ hours at the nest, waiting to see if there were still three chicks. Whew! all three are still there. No shots of the three of them as each time they were all out together the sun was behind a cloud. Just a couple of shots to share with you. First, a different view of Dad leaving the pole branch, which I cloned out. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 26, 2011 5:38 AM Post #8824400
| Dad, Big Hook and two of the three chicks.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 26, 2011 5:40 AM Post #8824401
| Big Hook and the largest chick, which wriggled out from beneath her wing.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Ladi_Burd
Norwalk, OH (Zone 5a)
September 26, 2011 5:51 AM Post #8824428
| This thread is so awesome!
Thank you both so much for sharing! |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 26, 2011 6:10 AM Post #8824484
| Ladi_Burd, you've found the best thread on bird watch forum. Welcome on behave of Margaret. I am beside myself having found this wonderful gift. Thanks again Margaret, and Pete for sharing. Okay, folks. Is it a good time to name the 3 babies?
Boo, Bee and ...? |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 26, 2011 6:12 AM Post #8824488
| I've heard of a osprey chick named Giblet. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 26, 2011 6:43 AM Post #8824529
| Welcome, Ladi_Burd. Glad you're enjoying it. It's a treat to be able to share the lives of these remarkable birds.
LOL on the names, Kim and Pelle. Kim, you say the nicest things. Thank you. Early days for names, though. Let's see what their characters give them.
Speaking of characters, I haven't heard Whopper for probably two weeks. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 26, 2011 7:32 AM Post #8824592
| Ooops there goes!!! Time for Whopper packing up for college. lol |
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
September 26, 2011 9:49 AM Post #8824835
| I do hope Whopper is safe and well. Love these photos, especially that last one with Big Hook and chick. I agree, too early to name the little ones. It seems like the last time "Whopper" came up just at the right time. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
September 26, 2011 3:59 PM Post #8825466
| Well...once more I am late...just now stumbled on to this thread. How exciting to have 3 chicks hatched!! Now more stress to what transpires...keeping fingers crossed! |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom (Zone 9a)
September 26, 2011 4:46 PM Post #8825539
| Boo, Bee, and Baa, for now?
|
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 26, 2011 5:11 PM Post #8825586
| ROFL with the Triple Bs. Resin.
Kim |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom (Zone 9a)
September 26, 2011 5:20 PM Post #8825609
| Of course we won't know which is which while they're all alike! As they get older, no doubt differences will become visible.
Resin
|
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
September 27, 2011 8:03 PM Post #8827316
| Aww, now look at those 3 darling little fluff balls. They are so precious, and the parents looks so proud!!! Fantastic pictures Margaret and Pete.
You both are doing such a great job on relating the happening at the nest.
Sorry about the bee sting, Pete. Hope your are doing fine. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 5:24 AM Post #8827507
| When I went to the nest yesterday, I watched for half an hour whilst Big Hook fed the chicks. The little one was between and behind its older siblings and was missing out. It was only when one of the two larger chicks was displaced sideways and upside down when the piece of fish it had in its beak was pulled by Big Hook, who didn't seem to realise that she still had hold of one end. The little one was then able to move forward and managed to get a small feed. The chick who was dislodged upside down righted itself within half a minute.
Needless to say, I was concerned that the youngest chick would be deprived of regular feeds and hobbled to the nest this afternoon to check things out. Big Hook was covering the chicks, but eventually got up and started eating the remnants of a fish. (See photo). The chicks all roused from slumber, but none showed any sign of being hungry, which would indicate that the little one had also had its fill.
Here's Big Hook swallowing the tail of a fish. She spat it out several times as it was proving to be a difficult customer, but her persistence paid off in the end.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 5:25 AM Post #8827508
| Big Hook and one chick. The other two are there, but are hidden.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 5:26 AM Post #8827509
| Big Hook and two chicks.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 5:27 AM Post #8827512
| Big Hook and all three chicks.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 5:28 AM Post #8827513
| Beautiful Dad, who has been doing some flamboyant manoeuvres around the nest. This isn't one of them.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
September 28, 2011 5:31 AM Post #8827516
| Thanks for the wonderful pictures Margaret. Glad to hear that all three chicks are being fed. Big Hook is certainly a gorgeous bird. |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
September 28, 2011 5:32 AM Post #8827518
| just wonderful... |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 28, 2011 5:42 AM Post #8827532
| So absolutely wonderful!!! It's so very nice to be able to see all 3 babies, and at the end of the day none seems to go hungry, especially the littlest. Margaret, the nest seem to be deeper? Is that why it's hard finding the 3 babies together? Once you do (find them together) they're soooooo hugable! ~grin. Also, I'd like to make a comment on Big Hook; things that parents do for their offsprings; like trying to swallow the inedible portion of the meal just so the kids are provided Priceless. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 28, 2011 6:02 AM Post #8827559
|
It's pretty special, isn't it? We're by no means out of the woods with the chicks' chances of survival, but will hope for the best.
Kim, the nest cup does seem to be a little deeper than last year and both Dad and Big Hook are continuing to bring in additional small sticks to shore up the sides. |
irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
September 28, 2011 7:52 AM Post #8827702
| Nest building seems to be an ongoing task--good. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 5:05 AM Post #8828862
| Same things this afternoon, IrisMA. Dad brought in small sticks before heading off to the other side of the river.
Very quiet at the nest this afternoon, which probably means that the chicks were fed not long before I arrived. There are still three chicks. I didn't manage to get a shot of all three, but have a couple of shots of one of the chicks with Big Hook (the others were underneath her).
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 5:08 AM Post #8828867
| The first chick was hatched a week ago today. When they are 10 days old, they can regulate their own body temperature. Before that, temperature control is absolutely reliant on body heat from the parent birds - or if the temperature is really warm, on shade provided by the parent.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 5:11 AM Post #8828869
| Rarely a day goes by when I don't see bottlenose dolphins cruising by. This one was a bit distant, but it was the only shot I got where its face was out of the water. Dolphins are so hard to photograph. Well, they are for me.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
September 29, 2011 5:26 AM Post #8828882
| Love the chick. And the shot of the dolphin is wonderful! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 5:35 AM Post #8828892
| Thanks, GG. I wish I could share the other birds from where I watch the ospreys. There's endless songs from a couple of dozen varieties of birds, but because of the long lens I'm using and the thick vegetation, I'm rarely presented with an opportunity to photograph them. But, needless to say, it is a very special place.
|
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
September 29, 2011 11:09 AM Post #8829311
| Great shots Margaret, they are so cute! Love the Dolphin too! |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
September 29, 2011 3:24 PM Post #8829620
| Ospreys and dolphins...perfect! |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
September 29, 2011 3:58 PM Post #8829654
| You have a very nice spot, to be able to see, what's happening below. The Dolphin shot is great. The nesting activities are very interesting. |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom (Zone 9a)
September 29, 2011 5:24 PM Post #8829770
| nanny_56 wrote:Ospreys and dolphins...perfect!
Bet the local fish aren't too keen on that combination, though!!
Resin
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 5:25 PM Post #8829774
|
Ha ha. |
Resin
Northumberland
United Kingdom (Zone 9a)
September 29, 2011 5:27 PM Post #8829778
| MargaretK wrote:Big Hook and one chick. The other two are there, but are hidden.
Can actually see all three heads on this one (ringed in red)
Resin
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 29, 2011 6:22 PM Post #8829858
|
You're right - as always. Thanks. I knew I had a shot with all three. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 30, 2011 5:08 AM Post #8830190
| The three chicks are still there and were seen being fed almost equally this morning. What is now of concern (there's always something, isn't there?) is that Dad brought in a yellow plastic bag and placed it right where the chicks are. Several worst case scenarios are going through my head. People who discard their rubbish.
In this shot, the three chicks are spread out in front of that bag. The white sheet of plastic that has been there for many weeks is now half buried beneath the outer section of the nest and shouldn't pose a danger. Sorry about the quality, but the light really was poor. It was windy and I hoped that the wind might pick the bag up and carry it off, but no such luck whilst I was there.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 30, 2011 5:10 AM Post #8830193
| Here, Big Hook is sitting on part of the plastic bag (which can't be seen) and one or two of the chicks, whilst this one was having a good look around. It is amazing how much they grow within a 24 hour period.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
September 30, 2011 5:18 AM Post #8830202
| It's a shame, Margaret for people littering trash all around! And the chick! How fast they grow! What's a treat to see them. Thank you. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 30, 2011 5:24 AM Post #8830211
| An Australian bird which is loved by most and feared by some, especially during the nesting season, is the Australian Magpie. They are wonderful birds that are very much part of suburban, bush and woodland life and have the most gorgeous, fluting song. I believe they have recently been reclassified as a songbird. There are not many Australian families that don't feed Magpies titbits and they become so accustomed to humans, they will happily wander into the house if a door is left open. They are territorial birds and during nesting season, they become even more so, and will fiercely defend their young from any threat, perceived or real. Humans who have been accepted by a family of Magpies have nothing to fear, but other Magpies, especially those that have been teased, chased or tormented, become attack birds for a few short weeks each spring.
There's a family of Magpies in a tree somewhere in the vicinity of the Osprey nest. When I arrived there this afternoon, I saw a female swoop down on Big Hook, who was sitting on top of the chicks. Later, when Dad arrived with the ghastly plastic bag, Big Hook took off for a brief flight. Out of nowhere came a female Magpie, who pursued Big Hook up and down the bay. I managed just a couple of blurry shots, but you'll get the idea.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
September 30, 2011 5:26 AM Post #8830213
| Kim, you're so right. There are heavy penalties for littering, but it remains a problem, especially in the waterways.
Here's the second shot I nabbed as they flew by below me.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
ducbucln
Kelseyville, CA (Zone 8b)
September 30, 2011 8:25 AM Post #8830402
| Human's can be so thoughtless and seeing that yellow plastic just breaks my heart. This poor family survived that first bag and now a new one replaces it. I do hope that mom and dad will bring lots of sticks that will soon bury it away from the chicks.
Great photos of the magpie. Poor Big Hook really has so many things to worry about and now this. Surely something good has to come from all this and soon-I hope.
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burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
September 30, 2011 6:17 PM Post #8831016
| That's such a shame, how some just don't care, how it affect life, on our beautiful Earth. Sure hope, nothing bad happens to the chicks, because of the bags. |
VA_Wild_Rose
Fredericksburg, VA (Zone 7a)
September 30, 2011 7:04 PM Post #8831074
| I am just catching up to this thread Margaret! Wow! You have an excellent view of the inner nest this year! Your photos are wonderful as always! I sure miss our Osprey already! |
huggergirl
Columbia City, IN (Zone 5b)
October 1, 2011 3:49 AM Post #8831327
| Just amazing how fast they grow.Thank you Margaret |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 1, 2011 5:32 AM Post #8831390
| Littering is such a global problem. I have news about the yellow plastic bag, though. It has gone from the nest - whew! Thanks for your comments, Burn, duc, Wild rose and Tamara.
The three chicks are still all there, although the smallest one is lagging a bit, so time will tell. Big Hook fed them whilst I was there, but it was impossible to see who got what, as her body obscured them. The little one's crop does seem to be full, which is a good sign. In this shot, the smallest chick is facing the camera. The two bigger ones are next to each other, but only one can be clearly seen.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 1, 2011 5:35 AM Post #8831394
| The biggest chick is starting to lose its down and will soon begin to take on a reptilian appearance.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 1, 2011 5:38 AM Post #8831398
| Dad had apparently got himself soaked when catching the fish he brought to Big Hook. He flew to the pole branch and fluffed himself up, wings partially spread, to dry himself.
We're expecting storms tomorrow and then rain for a couple of days. I'll grab any breaks in the bad weather to visit the nest.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
October 1, 2011 5:53 AM Post #8831415
| oh he's beautiful all fluffy like.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 1, 2011 6:00 AM Post #8831421
|
He's beautiful, isn't he? Mind you, I'll bet that cormorant didn't think so.
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Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
October 1, 2011 6:04 AM Post #8831426
| He is a beautiful bird. puffy or not. "what a nice guy" too. |
GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
October 1, 2011 6:10 AM Post #8831433
| Love the pictures Margaret. Glad that yellow bag is gone. Dad is a really handsome guy. Love the wet look! |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
October 1, 2011 6:14 AM Post #8831438
| I can easily find myself echoing everyone's comments. He's outa 'tis world! One fine bird! It's so special to be able to watch these precious chicks grow. |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
October 1, 2011 2:33 PM Post #8831925
| Amazing how attached we have all become to these birds over the years despite the thousands of miles way they are from most of us!
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gardenpom
Melbourne, FL
October 2, 2011 5:38 AM Post #8832500
| They seem to be doing great Margaret. Just saw this morning that "Dad" Eagle at Norfolk seems to have found a new mate. |
P_Edens
Missouri City, TX (Zone 9a)
October 2, 2011 6:18 AM Post #8832546
| Margaret,
I just ran across this thread and will be sure to check out the link at the top to see the beginning of this journey.
My compliments on your excellent photojournal of these wonderful birds.
Your photos are amazing and I have so enjoyed reading the news and learning along the way. I think you did a wonderful job photographing the dolphin and magpie too. The excitement of all that have commented so far is contagious. I can't wait for your next post.
Patti
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 4:33 PM Post #8833261
| He is a nice guy, Mrs Ed. He's so placid.
Dad was swooped by a Willie Wagtail yesterday - just the once that I saw, but that may mean they have a nest close by and we can expect more of it. As always, when the WWT flew away from Dad, who was sitting on the pole branch, it flew straight up the embankment towards me and landed on a rail just above my head, almost as if gloating.
I love to see them wet and fluffed up like that, GG. I was really relieved to see the plastic bag gone.
Kim, I just wish I could share all the subtleties that I'm not able to catch with a still camera. Yesterday I could see one of the chicks flapping its tiny little wings. I've been promising myself a video camera for some time, but I think I'll wait until I update my 40D and get one with video.
Nanny, the internet always reminds me of the opening lines of Charles Dickens' novel, "A Tale of Two Cities." "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." Our ability to share things that we normally wouldn't be able to is fantastic. It really does shrink the world.
GP, that's great about the Norfolk male finding a new mate. These chicks are doing well so far. Let's hope it continues.
Thanks, Patti and welcome. I'm glad you have found the thread and that you're enjoying it.
I went to the nest earlier than usual yesterday. Thrilled to see three chicks all apparently doing well. Dad brought in a live fish and all three chicks were fed by Big Hook. In this first photo, the youngest is in the middle of its two siblings, the latter two both losing their down and the biggest is starting to sprout pin feathers, which I don't think will show in these shots.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 4:36 PM Post #8833264
| The little one is to the rear of the other two. You can see their crops filling up. The crops of the two bigger ones are more bulgy than the youngest, which would tend to indicate that they are still getting the lion's share, but at the end of the feeding session, all three seem very contented. I usually spend at least a couple of hours each day at the nest and so far haven't seen any bullying behaviour.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 4:42 PM Post #8833269
|
Maybe you can see the dark line on the wing of the largest chick (right). That's the pin feathers starting to appear.
I heard Whopper yesterday. The sound came from her usual spot down in front of Madam X's place. Both Dad and Big Hook gave a few unconcerned "kek kek"s, which is a totally different response to that given to "strange" Ospreys in the area. Dad chased one off a few days ago. It was a smaller bird than he, so it clearly wasn't Whopper. Whopper is now one year old.
I was talking to a guy who normally lives down south and he said it's nothing unusual for the young Ospreys to stick around the area and be tolerated by the parents.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 4:45 PM Post #8833272
| This is what confronted me when I got to the nest yesterday. These bees have a hive in the base of a large gum tree (where Pete was stung). For about 20 minutes this swarm made its way up and around the tree, before settling back down into the hive. The sound was amazing. There are many hives in the area. Generally our bees are not aggressive (touch wood).
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
October 2, 2011 4:59 PM Post #8833287
| Great shots Margaret. My goodness, I cannot believe that pin feathers are appearing already! These little chicks really grow at a rapid pace.
Judging from the number of bees in that shot, it is a good thing they are not aggressive!! |
Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
October 2, 2011 6:20 PM Post #8833390
| hey, good thing the Rainbow Bee Eaters are showing up!
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 6:22 PM Post #8833394
|
I know, GG. There's an obvious difference each day.
I'm surrounded by nasturtiums at the site and there are bees constantly buzzing around me. I keep on reminding myself that they don't want to hurt me, because by doing so, they bring about their own death. I also have to discipline myself not to try brushing them away. Just send out good vibes and hope they pick up on it.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 6:23 PM Post #8833398
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Ha ha, Mrs Ed. Good thinking. The Rainbow Bee-eaters are early. Normally I don't hear them until about October 20th.
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Mrs_Ed
Whiteside County, IL (Zone 5a)
October 2, 2011 6:39 PM Post #8833419
| I never have any problems (knock wood) with bees in the garden. They are quite docile and tolerant. That is not true for those nasty yellow jackets. They are mean. And guess what. I have a nest in my compost pile. sheeesh. Guess it will be winter before I turn that thing over.
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BeaHive
Dallas, OR (Zone 8a)
October 2, 2011 7:06 PM Post #8833458
| Beautiful shots Margaret. The triplets look great and the parents are doing a fantastic job this year! |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 2, 2011 7:15 PM Post #8833473
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Thanks, BeaHive. Big Hook doesn't seem quite as inexpert as she did in the previous two years. She seems to have a greater awareness of where she's stepping when she's around the chicks.
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irisMA
South Hamilton, MA
October 2, 2011 8:10 PM Post #8833534
| good to see all the 'triplets'. Cheer on the bee eaters. |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
October 3, 2011 5:54 AM Post #8833959
| Good news all around. Margaret, I'm glad that the bees posed no danger to the nest. Dad and Big Hook are absolutely beautiful and capable parents. It's so nice to have news of Whooper being near to 'home'. And boys! Did anyone else notice of the triplets, the youngest one is a 'blond', and the two older siblings are 'burnettes'? |
pelletory
Marlton, NJ
October 3, 2011 8:09 AM Post #8834141
| Wow Margaret the chicks look great!!!
Thanks for the wonderful pics! |
nanny_56
Putnam County, IN (Zone 5b)
October 3, 2011 9:04 AM Post #8834202
| Great pics showing the chicks!! My goodness, how fast they grow and good to so that at least so far all is going well.
I would be freakin' out with all those bees around. I have had bees just up and sting me and I don't like it one bit! This is the first year I do not have a nest of yellow jackets in the yard. Last year they were right by the water hose...I HATED that! lol |
burn_2007
Grand-Falls, NB (Zone 4a)
October 3, 2011 3:59 PM Post #8834717
| Margaret, that a good response, not to try brushing the bees away. I had Yellow Jacket bees land on me and I didn't move. They never did sting me. But they do become aggressive, when I try to shoo them away. I've also notice that they are very territorial over sugar water, and the Hummers are weary of them. But one brave little hummer went after a bee, after being harrassed by it. It had had enough of it. Never caught it, but manage to get it of it's back. lol
I like, how things are turning out, with the chicks so far. Hoping for a successful year. The little ones are so cute. |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 3, 2011 5:41 PM Post #8834897
| Iris, I'm going to the nest each day, as I am compelled to see that all three chicks are doing well. The Bee-eaters sure will have a feast when they arrive in greater numbers.
Kim, it was really good to hear Whopper, exactly a year to the day after she hatched (presuming she was the first hatched last year). Dad has always been a wonderful parent in the time I've been watching them, even when our beloved "Old Ma" was still with us. Big Hook isn't as restless and unsettled as she has been the two previous years, so hopefully, with maturity and experience, her parenting skills will get better and better.
Thanks, Pelle. The chicks really do look good. Even the youngest one is now starting to lose the down on the back of its head.
Nanny, fingers crossed, there has been no sign of any sibling rivalry. So different to last year when we watched as that poor little soul was bullied to death. I've always been scared of bees, because I react badly to their sting. However, my attitude towards them has changed (until the next time I'm stung) and am mostly able to ignore them in close proximity, but I will move away if one persists in buzzing around my head.
Burn, your yellow jackets sound ornery critters and I'd make myself scarce if they were around. Yes, here's hoping that things at the nest continue as they are at present.
I haven't been able to use my 500mm lens as I've hurt my back and the 400mm is my lifting limit. However, the back is on the mend and I should be able to get some closer shots within the next day or two. Here's a shot from yesterday. The "blonde" as Kim put it, is in the middle of the three chicks, which were being fed equally by Big Hook.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
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GrannyGrunt
Mount Pleasant Mills, PA (Zone 5a)
October 3, 2011 6:01 PM Post #8834937
| Wow! That is going to be a full nest as they proceed to grow! |
Lily_love
Central, AL (Zone 7b)
October 3, 2011 6:42 PM Post #8834994
| LOL, Margaret, please pardon the expression of the chicks distinction. The youngin' in the middle, is the reason why its head appears 'blondish' because it hasn't lost its down feather, whereas its two older siblings already have lost theirs? |
MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 3, 2011 6:46 PM Post #8835002
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Kim, no need to apologize. I had a really good laugh when I read it. You have a charming way of putting things.
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MargaretK
PERTH
Australia
October 4, 2011 6:52 PM Post #8836366
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I've started a new thread. Please join us over here. http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1223795/
This message was edited Oct 5, 2011 9:06 AM |
