Loch Garten osprey diary

The ospreys at Loch Garten have people across the world gripped in their tale of violence, adultery and... well... fishing.  More...

Odin plays hide and seek!

All seems to be going very well here at the centre, with Odin continuing to help with the incubation of the eggs and not just when EJ is eating. It is great to see her getting time to chill out and preen in the camera tree, especially as it has been so hot some days.

Yesterday even saw Odin taking a turn overnight, which is rather unusual. He certainly is a modern man! It is always more uncomfortable for the male osprey to incubate as he has a much smaller brood patch and is smaller in the body. They tend to wriggle about more!

Odin has also been supplying plenty of fish of a good size to EJ. There have been seven since Wednesday. Although he has brought in some rainbow trout, he seems to favour brown trout and pike. Perhaps the fish farm is a little too busy!

That said: EJ still awaits the first fish of the day. We thought Odin was away fishing this morning for about 40 minutes, then EJ started to food solicit and so we knew he must be nearby. We found him perched very close into the trunk of the camera tree, obviously managing to hide from us, but not from EJ! He then took over the incubating, whilst EJ took a long break of half an hour away from our sight.

There are long peaceful periods during incubation time, but EJ and Odin have had some stressful times too, with an intruding osprey two days running. Yesterday we had three ospreys (including an intruder) sat in the camera tree at one point and today one tried to land on the nest several times. Odin was very quick to chase them away. We are now waiting for him to return with a fish.

Posted by debbie aspinall at 15:49 on 25 April 2009.  119 comments

Comments

Pia
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 16:02

Thanks for the update Debbie! Nice reading, fingers crossed for a fish delivery --> EJ.

Lorraine
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 16:28

We were wondering on LG Bloggers on Facebook what had been going on as to intruders...thank you Debbie for the update much appreciated.

Valerie Lewis
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 16:51

Delighted to see EJ with Odin, she deserves a good mate after her lack of support from OVS last year.

My favourite birds are the Raptors for their grace and beauty, top of the list Osprey's of corse,next are the Corvine's for their great inteligence, which by coincidence were Odin's birds along with his Wolves. Looking forward to an intersting summer from LG.

Valhal

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 17:19

Thankyou for the update, Debbie! Glad all is well - but seven fish in 4 days doesn't sound much! Is that reasonable?  Hope he learns to bring more when he has 3 chicks to feed as well as EJ!

REPLY - Odin has been bringing in a good amount of fish so far, and is in fact just taking one into the nest as I type!  He has proved himself to be a great mate so far, so I'm sure he will rise to the challenge of bringing in more fish when the chicks hatch.  Claire

Benita
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 17:30

Odin has just brought a decent size fish (17:30) and he is now happily settled doing his bit of the incubating whilst EJ has her meal. What a super Dad!

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 17:32

Thanks for the reply, Claire!  I just saw that fish delivery myself  - good old Odin - I must remember to have more faith in him!    After last year, it would be fantastic to see  three healthy chicks getting as much food as they can eat!

quietwoman
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 17:38

Apologies to LG team for panic about Goshawk. Have a soft spot for these birds as, many years ago, I did a stint at nest watching at my local reserve. Pleased to hear Odin is doing such a good job. Saw EJ was calling but missed the delivery so thanks for your update, Debbie and your reply, Claire.

ruti
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 18:11

Just seen EJ fly in to take over from Odin. She's such a beautiful girl. It's great to be starting the whole 'maternity watch' again. Let's hope this year is a good one.

M G
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 19:53

I am glad someone has at last told me the difference between these two beautiful birds, it's great to be able to tell which is which

so thanks for letting me and probably others know I surely can't be on my own in not knowing which is which if I am I can only blame the new glasses

jasper
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 20:25

just came in from a great day in the Trossachs.Got our first wood warblers an d redstartand gues what, in the  David Marshall centre

another screen showing Ospreys, no eggs yet. Thank you for update

Cirrus
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 20:29

Thank you Debbie for your explanation of Odin's behaviour yesterday when I thought he was in distress and couldn't wait  around for the outcome. I'm learning all the time . Can't wait to get home and log on and see what events unfold in regard to EJ and Odin.  Jane (Allport)

Barbara Jean
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 20:42

Thanks Debbie  for  the update !!  EJ and  Odin have been quite busy chasing  away intruders.

On Roy Dennis's blog he said there have been quite a few Osprey arriving late this year. He also said there are several males in his area without a mate. Perhaps when the  "girls" get here there will be fewer intruders for EJ and Odin to  chase away.  LOL

A new male aggressively challenged Nimrod for his nest. At one point  the new  guy dive bombed Nimrod and  knocked him out of his tree.  He said  now it appears Nimrod has  won the contest and the nest . :)

linny m
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 21:38

21:34  Am I right in thinking that EJ has just left the nest to stretch her wings and Odin has flown straight in to take over?

trevor park
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 21:44

Amy here just off to bed so getting my last look at the Ospreys before the big snooze. Thanks for the reply regards where Odin goes at night See you all tomorrow, sleep tight EJ and Odin nitenitezzzzzzzzzz

Burnie
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 22:03

Thanks for the updates, it's lovely to know what's going on away from the webcam. I had the webcam on in our shop today when all the intruder noise alert was going on.  There were some very confused customers wondering where the birds were!!

Carol
Posted on Saturday, 25 April 2009 at 23:00

Looks like Odin is doing another night shift. Maybe he will even feed the chicks as Henry did? The waiting continues.

Barbara Jean
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 5:57

The night report. It is 5:45 A.m. (UK time) EJ and Odin have  amazing communications.

She stood up stretched her wings and softly chirped. She then flew off and Odin immediately came to  sit on the eggs. She clearly was saying I need a break!

He did the same thing  yesterday when she had been gone for  quite some time. He softly chirped and she immediately came to take over incubation duties.

Kitty
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 8:12

There seems to be some sort of disturbance as I write (8-10am).  Odin is calling and both birds are watching the skies attentively.  Is there another osprey about again?

Odin is very protective which is good to see.

REPLY - There was an intruder who landed at the nest just before 8am, but Odin soon chased him away. Both EJ and Odin were busy collecting sticks and moss after that. Debbie.

Loony Lynne
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 9:24

Great Update. They seem to be the perfect couple and potential parents by the sound of it. I still believe Odin undertsands what the camera is and his tactics of "branches" not managing to block the view - he has now decided to hide! MUst like his privacy - A sensitive modern man! :-)

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 9:34

9.30 am -  Oh my goodness! Odin is moving sticks around on the nest - EJ got up  and flew off leaving him  moving them around. One went straight over the eggs- I  thought

he must surely have damaged them- I hope not! Going to Birmingham now, overnight, so will be worrying till I get back tomorrow!

REPLY - Don't worry the eggs are fine! Debbie.

jasper
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 9:43

just seen swap over on nest. Odin never brought a fish, he just gave her a gentle nudge and she left the nest returning quickly with more sticks/twigs. He looks as happy as Larry incubating and rearranging the nest.  Is it just me, or does anyone think he's quite effeminate lol or is he just not afraid to show his feminine side - is there a difference? . Wish I had one like him at home lol

Anonymous
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 9:54

I have noticed EJ - when shes incubating her eggs she picks up tiny twigs and moss and puts them on her back or at the side of her.  Maybe a silly question .  Loving it all - those beautiful birds.  

Margobird
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 10:17

Thanks for the update aClaire nd what a good boy Odin is bringing all the fish and taking his turn at incubation, he really is a modern man.    Hopefully he will keep this up when the chicks hatch.

Maggie
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 10:35

quietwoman - if you like the goshawks follow this link to the New Forest site and you can follow them in more detail.  http://www.newforestgateway.org/Wildcam/LiveCameras/tabid/117/Default.aspx

Libs did you find the live video for the opspreys?  Your question got lost amidst the eggcitement!

Maureen
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 11:27

Thanks for your update Debbie..like the idea that Odin is playing hide and seek!!!

It looks like he has brought his 'true love' a little posy of the nice pink sphagnum moss....pity it doesn't stay that colour.

quietwoman
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 11:55

Maggie, Thanks for that link. Have only visited New Forest a couple of times so I don't know it very well. Will add link to my favourites.

Odin is a very good mate to have and I think after the past few years, EJ deserves a good one. VS was getting a bit too old for parenting perhaps!

Kitty
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 11:56

Thanks for the feedback Debbie.  It's frustrating not being able to see the sky above them!

I assume all the nest building after the intrusion was reinforcing their bond?  The pink moss was a nice touch, but I was a bit concerned when Odin brought that big branch and dumped it on the eggs.  Nice to know they're safe.

Sally-A
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 12:26
Thanks for your update, Debbie and also thanks to the other Bloggers, as I keep missing the good bits!
Libs
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 12:33

Maggie, Thanks I had live video but I thought last year I could get the small screen showing on my computer screen as well as my work - so I could pretend I was working! I have now retired so it isn't as important -  I can watch for hours without feeling guilty - retirement is good.

Heather
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 13:06

not managed to catch up for a few days. Thank you for your answer to my question and for sharing yours Maureen. They are looking good! Looking forward to chicks.

Kitty
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 13:24
I've just seen Odin bring in an enormous fish. What a great provider.
Barbara Jean
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 13:24
Odin just brought a large fish for EJ.
Cirrus
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 14:19

Does anyone know if EJ ever gets a breakfast fish reallly early?      It's a long time to go without food between 6 or 7 in the evening and over night if EJ doesn't get a fish until the afternoon. It makes me nervous to note the time of the blog as 15.49 pm when it states that EJ is awaiting the first fish of the day !!!  Please would someone explain Osprey feeding habits to me.  Thank you. Jane (Allport)

REPLY: Odin has brought in a morning fish on numerous occasions, however sometimes it will take longer to catch a fish and not every trip is always succesful. Therefore the number of fish as well as the time they are brought in will vary day to day. David. 

Gary
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 14:50
Thank you as always for the update. Just loving watching the interaction between the 2:)
Cirrus
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 17:34

Oh, thank you, David. Much appreciated your input on the feeding subject.  I'm now hoping to see a 'supper' fish delivered.   Twigs and moss are all very well (smile) but I do enjoy seeing Odin deliver those big fish - almost as if he deliberately turns his beak up at the 'tiddlers'.   Jane Allport

linny m
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 18:10

NOW is NOT a good time to re-arrange the furniture, twigs, sticks etc!

Maureen
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 19:18

Forgot to say...it looks like they are building a fence around the nest. Hope it is not going to be too high.

Maureen
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 19:39

Hello quietwoman.....glad you have got a link to Goshawks, they are lovely aren't they. Mrs G is actually a Falconer's escapee. If you look closely you will see her anklets.....also a great way to tell which is the male!!!

Tiger
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 19:45

valhal are you the same valhal that used to frequent the Dutch forum in 2007? You should be well able to teach us all about the meaning of Odin etc?

Soosin
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 19:51

I'm assuming, with the calling EJ is doing just now 7.50, that Odin is sitting camera tree eating the head of her supper.

Karen
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 20:03

Good news for the Dumfries & Galloway Ospreys, HD and EP - first egg was laid on Friday.    

Maureen
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 20:38

EJ food calling for approx. 1 hour.  Odin better have a good excuse for not answering.......EJ rifling through sticks....looking for the proverbial 'rolling pin'??

Cirrus
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 21:00

It's almost 9 pm and Odin still hasn't returned to the nest, with or without fish. If anyone is up in the night and spots him please would you say so in a comment.   He's been gone since about 2.30 pm . I'm sure this must happen from time to time but I'll be very glad to see him tomorrow.   Jane Allport

REPLY - Odin brought in a fish yesterday afternoon, and yesterday evening.  However, he unfortunately dropped the fish in the evening and so was unable to deliver it to EJ.  He is off fishing as I type at 8.30am.  However, although he is not always visible on the nest camera, he may still be in the area perching on a nearby tree, so please do not panic if you do not see him for a while.  Blog comments do not automatically appear on the internet, we have to read them and then publish them, and while we attempt to this as often as we can,  it is usually only possible during working hours, so I'm afraid we are unable to publish comments posted overnight until the following morning.  I hopes this helps.  Claire

Cirrus
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 21:15

I remember what I wanted to ask. Do Ospreys ever mate for life? EJ it seems has had several different mates in successive years - at least that's what I understand from information I've read in the blogs (I'm new to the live Osprey video).  Thanks. Jane (Allport)

REPLY - Osprey will normally form a partnership and continue this for a good many seasons, unless the one of the partnership does not return, or if the pair have suffered several unsucessful seasons.  EJ has a complicated history so I shall give you an outline of her history.  She was rung as a chick on a nest in Perthshire.  She came to Strathspey as an adult and mated with Orange VS (last years male) on a nest in the area in 2001 and 2002 (sucessfully rearing chicks in 2002).  In 2003, both EJ and VS returned to their nest, but EJ was forced off it by another female, this is when she flew around the area and found Henry alone on the Loch Garten nest.  It was too late for chicks in 2003, but EJ and Henry formed a partnership and defended the nest.  Henry was always late returning from migration, whilst EJ and Orange VS are early birds.  Orange VS found EJ on the Loch Garten nest in 2004, and he would then come in and mate with EJ each year (despite having his own nest and female), before Henry returned.  However, Henry would easily see him off each year, with VS then concentrating on his own nest.  In 2004 and 2006 Henry and EJ sucessfully reared chicks.  In 2005 and 2007, there were already eggs on the nest when Henry returned (Orange VS's eggs) and Henry kicked them out as he would want to rear his own chicks not another osprey's.  In 2007 EJ did lay a full second clutch, however, sadly they did not survive.  In 2008, Orange VS lost his other nest, and EJ accepted him as her mate, a wise decision, as Henry did not return, and so if she had waited for him she would not have reared any chicks, and her 3,000 mile migration from Africa would have been in vain!  This year, again she has been wise to accept Odin as her mate, as her season is now well under way, with three eggs on the nest, rather than still waiting for Orange VS to return.  Odin had to work hard to be accepted, performing skydance flights, bringing in fish and building up the nest, he seems to be doing well so far, fingers crossed for the rest of the season.  Hope this answers your question, apologies its quite long but EJ has a complicated story! Claire

trevor park
Posted on Sunday, 26 April 2009 at 21:19

Amy here had no nursery today so had a great day watching the Ospreys. Just going to bed nitenite Odin & EJ xx zzzzzzzzz

BarbaraAnne
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 9:37

It is nice to see LG calm this morning if a little damp..

I have just popped over to check on the Goshawk site in the New Forest and the weather is horrendous down there !! Mrs G will be clinging on by her talons !!

These spring storms can be viscious and although the weather patterns are looking good we could still have a sudden snow blizzard here in the Highlands..

Janeallport....you can click on the diaries on the right hand side of the page to read a lot of the blogs back to 2007 which will answer a lot of your questions...

Last years were particularly poignant as we watched the hatching of 3 chicks, the youngest of which died being the runt of the litter, so to speak,and we then watched their first migration through their Sat Tags to see the male Deshar head out to sea in the wrong direction and drown west of the Azores having flown a mammoth 3000 miles... We were then thrilled when Nethy, the female made it to Africa and live there succesfully for several months only to Now have been lost as her Sat Tag hasn't moved for weeks so she is too presumed dead.

So we who regularly have been following this site for years are hoping desperately for a successful hatching of all 3 eggs this year AND more importantly for the successful fledging and migration of them all.

You will read a lot about migration worries. It is through Sat Tag research that more and more is learnt about why so many young Osprey don't make it and the possible reasons why..

If you go to Roy Dennis's website you will learn so much more.

It is now being thought that Ospreys who have their origins in Scandinavia may well have in their brains the migration signals that will send some away from Scotland on a route that takes them to far west as in Deshars case leading to their deaths..

So all support that you can give to the cost of these tags is critical on learning more and more..

Also Jane, if Roy is giving a talk anywhere near to where you live do go as his indepth knowledge is unsurpassed. He also has a brilliant book 'A Life of Ospreys' published by 'Whittles' which is fabulous...

LG, do correct me if any of the above info for Jane is incorrect..

Cirrus
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 9:48

Oh, wonderful! R (for Richard?). I can't tell you how much I appreciate you taking the time for such a lengthy explanation re EJ and her mates. I've found it so  interesting. I do so hope that EJ waits for Odin next year - he's really been sterling so far. And I'm so relieved to hear about the fish he brought in yesterday when I thought I'd been glued to my PC solidly all day ! but didn't spot one of the two fish being delivered. Birds really really are brillliant.  Thanks such a lot R.    Jane(Allport)

REPLY - Glad that it helped Jane, and that you are enjoying the blog.  Forgot to sign my name at the end of your reply sorry Claire.

Sheila
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 9:51

Thank you for your reply about EJ's history, Richard.  I only 'joined' last year and was never quite sure who Henry was or what had happened.  Riveting stuff!

Susan Branch
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 11:49

Debbie, thank you for the update and also for the reply to my other blogg.  I shall look forward to seeing the details for the tracking donations.  Meanwhile back to watchingour beautiful pair of Ospreys.  We are Soooooooo lucky!

Rachel Campling
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 11:57

I came to Loch Garten over Easter and loved seeing the ospreys in the nest so it's great to have the live link on my screen to check in with now and then! I just saw what must be Odin delivering a fish to EJ and assume this is now Odin on the eggs? Is there anyway of checking who's who at any given time I wonder so I know what/who I'm looking at?

REPLY - EJ does the bulk of the incubation, with Odin taking over whilst she eats, preens or goes on an exercise flight.  The way to tell male and female osprey apart is that the female has a brown 'bib' on her chest, while the male has a more or less plain white chest.  Obviously this is not to easy to spot if they are lying down incubating though!  I have noticed that Odin has a white stripe horizontally across the top of his head, almost like he is wearing an alice band!  And he also has two almost triangular brown patches on top of his head.  Hope this helps.  Claire.

Lily Anne Wilkinson
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 12:57

Have there been any sightings at all of Orange VS? He used to return at about the same time as EJ. Not that I want such a poor provider back with EJ, I would just like to know what has happened to him.

REPLY - No sightings as yet of Orange VS.  He would be seventeen this year, and the average age for osprey is sixteen.  Claire.

Karen
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 15:12

Hi Janeallport  – I’m so glad you are enjoying the blogs.  Don't worry about EJ, she is a tough cookie.  Last year she went without/had very little food on many occasions, VS being a very poor provider.  Compared to last year, Odin is looking after her really well, its when the eggs hatch there needs to be plenty fish regularly brought in.  Have you read Roy Dennis’ book “A Life of Ospreys” – it is fascinating and I think you would really enjoy it, in fact I know you would.  

Scoops
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 16:07

I agree that the very handsome Odin to date has been a better partner for “our” wonderful EJ than OVS, but I too would like to think that he is still alive.  Admittedly he did not provide well, but could age and increment weather have not played at least a part in his shortcomings? I would like to remember him as having fathered 3 very special and beautiful birds, whose lives, albeit so short (though I haven’t entirely given up hope on Nethy) brought together so many people from all walks of life and in so many emotional ways taught us of the perils they face and the need to protect them.

For now, I am delighted to see how well Odin seems to care for both EJ and the eggs for she certainly deserves it.

Cirrus
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 16:24

Hello there all you avid Osprey watchers. I've got to go to work in a very few minutes and if you are watching and see Odin bring EJ her  supper fish (or late afternoon tea or whatever) I'd be very grateful if you'd make a note of the time in a 'comment' so that when I come home very late this evening I might have a chance of knowing when. Even if that means not knowing till tomorrow 'cos everyone is, of course, exceptionally busy at the centre right now.  Thanks in advance. Jane (Allport).

 REPLY - A good sized (12 inch) Rainbow Trout was brought in by Odin as I typed at 17.10.  Claire

BarbaraAnne
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 17:15

For Jane,

Nice big fat fish delivered at 15.12...You just missed it !!!

I would have a serious word with Odin about his timings if I were you !! :-)

Kitty
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 17:15

Odin just brought in a large fish then settled down to babysit.

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 17:20

17.12pm. Odin just brought in a decent sized fish which EJ immediately seized and flew off!

In doing so it looked like she trod on an egg - I hope not!  Seems they like to keep giving us frights like that - first Odin with his sticks, now EJ in her haste to eat her long-awaited fish!

Those eggs must be less fragile than we think!

Odin settled down to incubate.

REPLY - We were watching closely here at the Centre, and the eggs are grand.  That was a good sized Rainbow Trout for EJ.  Claire

Barbara Jean
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 19:43

OK who pooed on the camera lens LOL

mozziecat
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 20:23

Oh Dear!! you've had rain as well.  Down here in Somerset we've had rain and hail today, as well as some sun.  I can see it's EJ on the nest now because I can see her brown chest feathers between the blurry blotches.  She is rearranging the eggs at the moment.  Our weather has cleared so, hopefully, so will yours.

Soosin
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 20:42

That was really nice scoops.

fiona13
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 20:48

Anyone interested in the white tailed sea eagles and other birds should have a look at the following website; http://www.looduskalender.ee/en/node, it has live streaming and videos to watch, including a black stork, owls, black grouse, some really good and interesting stuff.  I think it's based in Estonia although english is used on the webpage making it easy to understand.  The white tailed sea eagles have 2 white cute fluffy chicks on the nest, hatched last week with mum and dad carefully watching over them.

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 21:04

Thanks for setting my mind at rest, Claire.  Your hearts must be in your mouths at times, up there!

Cirrus
Posted on Monday, 27 April 2009 at 22:54

YES  !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!       Jane (Allport)

re the rainbow trout of course. Many many many thanks Claire and  BarbaraAnne  and Kitty and Wee Jeannie . Very grateful to you all. I shall sleep the sleep of the satisfied and contented tonight.    Jane

Susan Warne
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 0:16

Thanks for all the news Claire, I have the cam on when I am working & once thought the churriping was the batteries in my fire alarm!!

12.15 midnight I see EJ so peacefrull & sleeping a bit different from last year. Trevor Park please tell Amy that EJ was just as fast asleep as she was last night.

REPLY - We know what you mean about the smoke alarm, the squeaky toy birds in the shop sometimes confuse us for a second at the Centre! Claire 

Libs
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 8:48
Fiona13: What a great web site. I can see I shall get nothing done although once EJ's eggs hatch the other sites will be ignored.
Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 9:02
Hello fioan13 - I've just been looking in on the white tailed eagles in Estonia or wherever they are - Wonderful. I had to take /node off the URL to find the correct page and then just clicked on the link on the left hand side. There is a woodland bird calling on the video at the moment and I know it's not in Abernethy forest - it's usually the Chaffinch getting a loud song in when I look in on EJ and Odin. There is also thunder in the background. I wish Mull had streaming video for Skye and Frisa - they've just had at least one egg hatch recently. Thanks for the info. Jane (Allport)
Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 9:08
Rats! I just misssed Odin's arrival at 9.05 ish. Please did anyone notice if he brought a fish or was it just the big stick he was rearranging when I dashed back to my computer room on hearing wings. Hope someone can help me here and thanks . Jane (Allport)
quietwoman
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 9:22

My goodness, Claire!! How do you find the time to give those long and detailed replies? Many thanks to Maureen and Maggie for Goshawk info'. Mrs. Gos looks much better today, the weather seems to have calmed down, althoiugh she always causes a quick stab of panic when I see her stretched out like that, but as long as I can see she is breathing I know it's all OK. When EJ dozes on the nest her head just drops until her beak rests. I've never seen her flat out like the Gos. Even at night she just seems to 'catnap'. When I was nest-watching the Gos, we just had a long pole with a mirror attached which we used when the birds were off the nest. How things have changed! These webcams are just magic, like having nests outside your window and all this info' from 'experts' and other bloggers keeping us up to date is so fascinating, I enjoy reading them all.  About 25 days from now things are going to get hectic, aren't they Maureen? LG will have to have a full time 'blog reader'! Hope you've all done your spring cleaning!!!

ALAN PETRIE
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 10:06

Fiona13: Brilliant web site with such clear sharp pictures on the live streaming. As usual even countries like Estonia are well ahead of UK in technology.

Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 11:07

Hello fiona13 - the male white tailed eagle has just returned to his nest and is feeding the chicks  Mum's off on a break.   Do we know if EJ has had a fish today yet?    Jane (Allport)

CliveT
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 13:28
I predict May 21st for the first hatching and a female and hopefully not a bully.
Richard WSX
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 13:42
13:40 Just spotted in my TV listings for tomorrow. 11:00 BBC2, Ospreys: The Fish Eagle. It's about ospreys in Canada. EJ just arrived, Odin didn't really want to go.
Sue Nicolson
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 13:45
ok thanks; got it; fantastic filming; owls are gorgeous! So are ospreys!
Barbara Jean
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 13:50
When EJ returns to the nest she literally needs to "push" Odin off the eggs. She puts her talon under him to move him off the eggs. LOL He doesn't want to give them back to her. I wonder how he will act after they hatch.
Maureen
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 14:54
Both EJ and Mrs. G are looking very contented......I suppose it is that time of day....Siesta. I don't know about you Quietwoman but I can hardly wait to see the O and G 'babies'. Yes, this year I have got my spring cleaning up to date, well nearly!!!
Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 15:48
Hello someone !!!! it's 3.45 pm . Was that a strange Osprey that landing on the nest? At first I thought it was Odin. EJ didn't llike it at all - reallly upset. And she is still 'warning off'. Is anyone else able to confirm? I wish Odin has showed up - he's really have sorted the intruder out. EJ has to guard the eggs !! Jane (Allport)
Anonymous
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 15:53
Poor EJ 3 50 and she's fending off an intruder, I hate watching 'cos you want to help and can't naturally!! Is it too early for a wine!1 My poor nerves imagine what EJ's must be like!! LOL
Maureen
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:12

Nice to see Sammy squirrel feeding from his own feeder....haven't seen him for a couple of weeks he is looking great.

Joyce.P
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:20

Oh gosh, poor brave EJ ! Is it my imagination or is she getting more intruder trouble to deal with than she did last year ? Are you able to identify them yet LG ?

Tish, it's after 4.00 I think I'll join you. Mr. Fishwife thinks I'm really cracking up now. He wants to know why I'm screaming at my laptop. LOL.

 REPLY - We always see more intruders at the start of the season as these singletons (either first time returning youngsters or older birds who have lost their partners or nests) who are looking for a mate.  It should hopefully quieten down as more birds pair up.  Claire.

Anonymous
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:22

Itr's 4.20 and she's still being attacked.  My Pointer is sorting the intruder out though !!!!

Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:27

Oh there's nothing like daylight drinking tish. I much prefer it to drinking in the evening. So long as it's after  10 am (smile). Open the bottle. I've got a dry sherry on the go !  EJ has done a sterling job but she has the eggs to look after. The intruder is very persistent. I know what you mean about nerves!!!!

When anyone at the centre has time, a question: do you know any of these intruding Ospreys? Is it the same intruder each time (on different days) and will they be male or female?  Thank you, Jane(Allport)

REPLY - None of the intruding osprey have had leg rings, so we do not know anything about them.  The majority of our intruders have been male.  Claire.

Maureen
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:29

4.23pm....Confirming janeallport's SOS. I thought it was Odin but no it was an intruder but EJ saw him/her off.

TIsh....if you start having wine now, for your nerves.what will you be like when the 'babies' are here?

Pia
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 16:49

I agree with what quietwoman said, it's amazing you've the time to post those long and detailed replies. I don't post here that often, but just to read other peoples Q. - answers from other members and LG-"team", gives me a lot! Thank you, thank you all for good information, links etc. I'm happy to follow this saga this year again. :)) Pia

Barbara Jean
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:17

Odin just  brought  a fish for EJ

patriciat
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:19

At last I've seen Odin bring a fish in - and EJ really snatched it from him and flew off.  Odin's really gentle when he settles on the eggs.  What a smasher!

jswscot
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:23

17:15 Odin arrived home with a fish thank goodness.  EJ's nerves, like mine, must be shattered.  He won't believe the afternoon she has had!!  He is now incubating.

jswscot
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:23

17:15 Odin arrived home with a fish thank goodness.  EJ's nerves, like mine, must be shattered.  He won't believe the afternoon she has had!!  He is now incubating.

ALAN PETRIE
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:31

17:30 and once again odin is reluctant to move off the eggs despite EJ s protestations. Eventually she nudges him off and he leaves the nest.

Barbara Jean
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:31

The  fish  apparently was not large enough for EJ so she is now on the nest standing  right next to Odin and food  soliciting  in his  ear. He is  ignoring  her and just continues to sit  on the eggs. He is refusing to  get off the eggs and go for more fish. LOL

jswscot
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:32

17:29 EJ back on nest - she must have gobbled up that fish or dropped it.  She has nudged Odin off the eggs and is now back incubating.

Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:36

BarbaraAnne- I thank you for your info yesterday - only just caught it. I shall certainly keep a lookout for any visits/talks by Roy Dennis and visit his website. I've just received my latest issue of 'Birds' - there is a stunning picture of an Osprey holding a Pike in its talens.  I did follow Deshar and Nethy via my GoogleEarth - wept buckets. And then this year found this site.

And thank you Karen. I was reassured by your information in regard to EJ. Thanks for the 'heads up' Richard WSX re the programme on Ospreys on BBC2.

I don't suppose EJ was seeing Odin off was she ?????   'Cos she .wanted a fish ?????  The latter intruder ?? who she literally pushed off the edge of the nest....Jane (Allport)

Soosin
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 17:42

Hi CliveT. Im a few days after you, I thought 24th

Lesley Gadsden
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 18:14

Fiona13 What an amazing site - thanks for sharing it.  The picture is very clear.  Lots of other interesting things there as well.  Really frustrating as have been offline all day at work so feel I've missed out on the day's adventures so far.  Good to get online at home and catch up with all the blogs :o) x Looks nice and sunny up there.

Anonymous
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 18:45

As much as we love these bonny birds and wax lyrical about them Ej does nag Odin a bit when he won't get off her precious eggs!!  It's so funny!!

patriciat
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 19:32

Desperate Fishwife, my husband has got used to me screaming about intruders or 'Oh they're both off the nest.  The eggs are left alone.  He's heard EJ calling for food and (may be) a bit interested!

Anonymous
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 20:47

Maureen- a total lush.  This is my first year watching them online and it's rivetting and an honour really.  But I will be a wreck by the end (or beginning) of it all.  Cheers Desperate Housewife

mozziecat
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 20:56

8.54pm Odin just brought a fish in.  It looks quite big. EJ took it at once and flew off.  Odin now settling on eggs.  This is the first time I have seen a delivery this year.  The noisy conversation (argument?) is continuing.

WEE JEANNIE
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 20:56

8.52pm- At last! Odin just brought in a big fish. Poor EJ has been calling for ages- I was getting worried  he wasn't going to bring her anything tonight ,but he came up trumps - good man!

He settled down onto the eggs straight away,bless him!

Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:00

Thank you so much Claire. I wasn't expecting such a fast response to my question and I really appreciate it.

Hey ho Osprey lovers - what about that large Pike that Odin has just brought in at 20.52pm. Pretty sure it was a Pike having seen one in 'Birds' today. What a supper for EJ. I wonder when he fishes for himself !!  Jane (Allport)

Maureen
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:02

HELLO EVERYBODY,...... thought you would all like to know that Odin has just delivered a HUGE fish for his 'sweetheart's' supper. He then very gently sat on the eggs to do his incubation stint.....he is so caring of EJ which bodes well for this years 'babies'

Nitenite to Amy from EJ and Odin.....sleep wellxxxx

Gary
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:30

Thanks everyone for all the updates, great to read, although nerve racking:)

Cirrus
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:39

Well, after a full day watching today (more of less) I've decided EJ should be just a little more appreciative of Odin and let him have a few more minutes on the eggs when he wants to incubate.  She really does 'nudge' him well and truly off them. He's such a good natured chap and likes to be helpful.    Jane (Allport)

Barbara Jean
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:44

I believe  Odin brought another fish to EJ. She was aggressively food soliciting about an hour ago. I had to leave. When I returned  Odin was incubating.  When EJ returned to the nest and she  was very calm, unlike her last  return to the nest after the smaller  fish at 17:17. When she returned that time she  started  food soliciting right in his ear as he  was incubating.

Either way, if we look at her she certainly doesn't  look  malnourished  She is  quite plump !. LOL

He is doing a  good job feeding her.

Brenda H
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 21:47

Fish arrived tonight at 8.55pm. after much calling from EJ. She had eaten it and ejected Odin by 9.35pm !

Chris
Posted on Tuesday, 28 April 2009 at 22:33
What a joy these ospreys are to watch! I had to laugh when EJ was demanding that Odin get off the eggs as it was her turn! She just gives him a little kick and off he gets! She certainly keeps him under the thumb! Odin is truly a modern man taking his turn at babysitting. I wonder how he will cope when the eggs hatch. I predict 22nd May.
Pia
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 7:22

The camera is down :( Hope it will be fixed soon. I wrote something yesterday ...mostly about how glad I'm to recieve all good information here by reading all posts, I think it was "censored" ...Anyway, THANKS AGAIN LG-team and fellow bloggers :)) / Pia

Libs
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 9:07

Tish: WARNING  if you continue to watch these osprey by the end of the season you will be a complete wreck! You will have died a thousand deaths, cried with joy and sorrow, learnt not to go to the loo in case you miss anything, fledging time your heart will live in your mouth, your house a total mess, your friends will think you have emigrated (except those you manage to converted to osprey watching), made lots of on-line friends and when the osprey leave your life will be empty. You then switch to Google Earth (and pray) as you watch the lines on the map showing your osprey children flying away south. By then you feel so attached to them it is personal. How the team at LG manage I have no idea - I take my hat off to them. Once hooked your life will follow the above pattern ........ you are warned

quietwoman
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 10:01

Hello everyone! The three times I logged on yeterday Odin was on the nest. Did he bring in 3 fish? His call seems to be slightly more musical than EJ's, so I think my Osprey 'cuddly toy' must be a female. They both look fit and content this morning as does the Gos.  

REPLY - Odin did bring in three fish yesterday, the last one was delivered at 20.50.  Claire.

Maureen
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 11:25

Hello Barbara Jean, I also thought, last night, that EJ was looking quite plump...she can't complain this year about lack of food!!   TISH, I think you should join AA right now, if not, you will miss the best bits.....seing the 'babies'. Now that wil be nerve wracking. I watched them last year for the first time and I hardly got any sleep!!  I can hear Mr/Mrs Cuckoo this morning.

Pia
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 12:20

The camera is back again, thanks a lot LG- team!

12.20 Odin arrange the nest with branches, and he puts some on EJ too.  He leaves and EJ re-arrange the branches...

m lake
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 12:34

A big thank you to the LG team and all the bloggers who keep us so well informed of the goings on at the nest and the fish deliveries. So pleased that Odin is doing such a good job at present.

have just watched both on the nest. Odin trying to move a large branch about, and EJ looking worried but sitting tight on those precious eggs. Odin then flew off and EJ set about putting things right.

I was on nighr duty over the weekend and was logged on both nights. EJ rearly sleeps and when she does her head goes down only for short periods. I am completly hooked again and am making arrangments to visit LG in june as I did last year. Am keeping fingers crossed that Odin keeps up this good work

Cirrus
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 14:04
BarbaraAnne - I have found R Dennis' website - a lot still being constructed but absolutely wonderful regardless. Thanks for that. I've got to go to work this evening so if any Osprey blogger would (please) note the time of EJ's supper fish I'd be very grateful so I can log on late tonight or early tomorrow to find out. Many thanks. Jane (Allport)
Gary
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 14:57
what a great post from Libs about the life of an Osprey watcher. I couldn't have put it better myself:) Thanks LG for getting the camera back up so quickly
Barbara Jean
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 15:01
EJ just let Odin have a long time incubating the eggs. When she returned he was fine with letting her have them. He definitely wants more time with them than just 15-20 minutes while she eats. He also brought in more pink moss. Too bad he doesn't put it in the nest cup. It would be very soft to lay on. I guess he is just attracted to the color :)
Maureen
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 17:24

Hi Libs...brilliant TRUE story about 'our' Ospreys.  

Barbara Jean
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 17:58

Roy Dennis's book, "A Life of Osprey's" says that  a "little over 2 fish delivered each day to the nest is normal"  . Many days Odin brings 3 fish so he is a very good provider!!  We may have a  couple of days ( like last year) when the  rain and wind make fishing impossible, but with the extra fat reserves EJ will be fine if that happens.  

Maureen
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 19:38

Just looking at EJ with the sun setting behind her....the colours are beautiful. I really think that this is true love for EJ, with Odin bringing all that lovely moss for the 'house'

Anonymous
Posted on Wednesday, 29 April 2009 at 20:01

LIBS:  That was a beautiful warning and I expect I will be in very good company.  

CliveT
Posted on Saturday, 2 May 2009 at 10:06

Libs - Yep I can relate to every word of yours .. Hooked is the Word and I like many other watchers wish for a happier fledging than poor Weeun, Deshar and .... no I'm not saying her name cos I hope she will return one day ..........

CliveT

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