I'm starting this thread in case it's not possible for MARY to do it due to the first-of-the-month freeze-up.
Aila, Louis and their 3 chicks are flourishing, with Louis proving a great provider to the biggest family he's had so far.
I might add some snaps 'n things if I last a bit longer, but let's get the thread on the road first ;)
IMAGICAT
Unknown said:Thanks everyone for pics and post. However, there are three juvies in this nest are there not? Did the eldest never return to the nest? Please tell me all is well here
The oldest (male JJ6) fledged days ago and is incredibly well, including roosting away from the nest at night. JJ8 (female middle chick) & JJ7 (male youngest) both fledged this morning. JJ8 has been back and forth to the nest since fledging this morning, JJ7 has not as far as I know. At the moment the birds on the nest are Aila, JJ6 & JJ8. So pending the return of JJ7, everything is going brilliantly on this nest. Ian
16.24, Aila is still dealing with the whopper Louis brought in at 14.35 & there is a half eaten flounder that Louis brought in at 14.28. Not resting on his laurels, Louis brings in another whopper. Ian
(c) THE WOODLAND TRUST, LOCH ARKAIG OSPREY PROJECT - POST CODE LOTTERY
16.28, JJ7 returns. Not the most elegant of landings but never mind. There is plenty of fish to choose from as no doubt he will be hungry. Ian
JJ7 showing how not to land on the nest. He must want one of the 3 fish on the nest
© The woodland trust
Richard B
Happy scenes, firstly Louis, Aila and two juveniles then Aila and all three juveniles. Ian
EDIT - and lots of fish!
17.50, Aila flies off leaving JJ7 manfully tackling the substantial chunk of flounder that is left and JJ8 who is relaxing at the edge of the nest. I suppose JJ7 & JJ8 will stay on the nest overnight, I can't honestly remember how many days after fledging JJ6 decided to stay out for the night. Ian
EDIT - I wonder how long it will take before one of them flies from the nest with a fish, not for a while yet I guess.