https://www.grandriver.ca/en/outdoor-recreation/Belwood-Lake-OspreyCam.aspx?_mid_=515
There's a nest in Ontario, Canada, west of Toronto that lost its female June 18. The male has stepped up to care for the 2 chicks (16 and 14 days old) by himself. Belwood Lake and Grand River - assuming those are his fishing grounds - look to be practically on the doorstep of the nest.
So far, so good...obviously a very fragile situation, but is it unheard of for a single parent to raise chicks from this stage to fledging?
That's good to know Pandy, thanks. Dad feeding both chicks who look strong
(c) Grand River Conservation Authority
It's 30 degrees celsius in Ontario. Dad is trying his best to shade the chicks who are panting. Let's hope they don't suffer too much in the heat while he's away fishing. It's great to see him doing what mum would typically do.
A glimpse of life on the nest. Luther (dad) keeps watch and tidies, the chicks are looking good, and even a bonus poop. ;)
The good news: Fish #4 delivered at 6:00pm
The bad news: there's been an intruder around. Luther left the nest at 6:02 with the fish to defend and returned with it at 6:14. Some alarm calling and mantling since his return, now he's managing to feed but still very alert/distracted.
Two chicks sleeping, they look so vulnerable. No doubt Luther is close by.
© GRAND RIVER CONSERVATION AUTHORITY
EJ's Memorial Balgavies Loch Ospreys 2023
Luther has just brought a stick in, time to build the barricades I think. Then he was alarm chipping, so maybe an intruder, but it has all quietened down now.
A video from nest watcher polo7422 on YouTube. Her channel also has other videos from this nest since it went "single parent" a week ago. Luther makes it look easy, and the chicks take everything in stride.
One day at a time....
Thanks - good to see this Pandy. The lake seems to be very close to the nest so perhaps the male can keep an eye on any predators while he fishes
Huddling during a quick rain shower at 2:30pm
And Fish #5 at 4:30
Unknown said: Thanks - good to see this Pandy. The lake seems to be very close to the nest so perhaps the male can keep an eye on any predators while he fishes
I'd just be guessing at how close he'd need to be to the nest to protect it adequately, but the fishing certainly is very close! More than once he's returned to the nest with a fish after being away for just 5-15 minutes. He's brought some whoppers, but also small fish that aren't big enough to satisfy everyone. I wonder why that is - weather conditions, being close enough to make frequent catches, or something else? His UK cousins don't seem to settle for anything much smaller than a whale! :)