Rothes is still in the area of La Gironde River, France. Her last known location was near a wee village called Les Ebaupins, still north of Bordeaux, at 9pm last evening. From Google Maps it looks like on that east bank of the river there are a lot of field drains and ditches which might hold fish but also several hollows that could be quarries or gravel pits, some of which look like they have water and so will likely hold fish too, and/or are perhaps used for aquaculture. All making for potential good pickings for Rothes. Someone did make a comment about aquaculture in this area, farming sturgeon. I guess that if they're of a suitable size for Rothes to catch and lift, then why wouldn't she eat sturgeon?
I wonder, do we have any bloggers in that area who could go and take a look and report back? Even though we're tracking her, it would be nice wouldn't it, to get a first-hand sighting reported to us?
Meanwhile, the other four ospreys are still all present on site here at Loch Garten, showing well today, on the nest quite a bit of the time which was great for our visitors. Quite when are they going to go? Both EJ and Odin, but especially EJ, who really should have gone by now, seem determined to stuff these two chicks to the gunwales with fish, to do their utmost to have them in tip-top condition for the journey ahead of them. Their parenting skills have certainly served Rothes well so far given her progress.
Thanks, as usual, Richard; we can't get enough of them all! Surprised that all 4 are still there, though. What great parents they are.
Thanks, Richard ... great to have your very informative update ... with excellent news! Although I do wish EJ would start her journey ... not that I won't miss her.
Nice blog Richard. (as usual) Perhaps you had better warn Tescos' to get in a supply of fish this winter. Looks like the family are staying... And what a good idea if one of the bloggers could fine out in real life where she is!! Superb..
Thank you Richard, do you think that EJ is worried that Garten might not be able to fend for herself yet and that is why she is staying it always seems to be Mallachie with the fish and Garten has to pinch it from her like at lunchtime today. Mind you I'm not rushing them off because it is so nice to see them on the nest everyday and the close ups are fantastic, thank you..
Thanks for the update!! Great to read all seems well with Rothes. Maybe EJ is hanging around just because she really likes everyone in her brood this year. Another thing that may be contributing to EJ's staying so long is there are several tropical storms that are intensifing into hurricanes in the Atlantic. These storms form off the coast of Africa. I am sure they feel the weather patterns so she may be waiting for things to calm down.
Thank you Richard, for the update. I'm worrying a little about EJ, as you said, she should have left already. I find myself wondering if she's hoping to see Rothes before she goes, but surely by now she must realise Rothes has left? Or does she think the two lazybones who won't go and fish for themselves might get into trouble without her here to feed them?
I presume she will go when she's ready, and/or when she feels Mallachie and Garten can fend for themselves, just in case they aren't planning on going anywhere!! :))
Thanks Richard. Good news again re Rothes. Has EJ ever been this late in leaving before? x
Thanks Richard for that infornative blog. It does look like Rothes has found a really good place to fish. Clever girl. Also amazing that all 4 other birds are still at LG on 18th August. They dont seem to be in any hurry to leave. Maybe they will break all the rule books again and all leave together.
Thanks Tish and everyone else for "Holly" sightings. Have just got back from taking Ember my avatar for a walk and can't see Holly at all now. Typical!!! x
That's what I think they will do AT>> all go together
Thanks Richard. I was thinking to myself last night it would be good if there was anyone in the area Rothes is in to report back! I think over the coming week we will see the famil leave - how cool if they all left together! There is an autumn nip in the air in the mornings so hopefully that will spur them on.
LSELEY
I hope Ember is alright. This is "pooches to the vet day" today!!!!lol
Thanks Richard.
Amazing EJ is still there.
Yes, do we have any bloggers down where Rothes is? I think we have a few in France here so don't know if you are close enough......
Hello Richard , it was me that searched the internet and told everyone about the fish farm and cavier, glad she's hanging around maybe she is waiting for her mum or Beatrice. The main thing is that she is on mainland Europe and not blown off course into the sea. Also if it is very hot there she may think it is Africia in which case as it gets colder move down to spain. As long as she is away from Scotland before it turns colder, I watch with interest.
JILLIAN
Many thanks Richard. If Rothes has found a good source of fish and the weather remains good, I am sure she is doing the right thing. Now waiting to see if your forcast for M&G to leave (c 20th-24th) is still on course. EJ confusing the issue !!