There is not much room left in the nest.
I’m not sure who is more worried about sharp talons landing in the wrong place –
mom osprey or the chicks.
Note that as mom lands, her toes are knuckling under to prevent her talons from accidentally harming a chick.
The eagles do the same when in the nest and there is no fish to hold down for shredding.
Mom and one chick are looking for the arrival of dad and breakfast.
Two of the chicks are trying to figure out whether or not that new pile of leaves is worth their interest.
The “pile of leaves” is me in my camouflage and mom dismissed me within seconds of my settling into place.
Quickly the chicks too forgot about me and soon all four ospreys were waiting for dad.
The blessings of a long lens and camouflage allow me to bring you photos without disturbing the family.
mom osprey has brought her trio of chicks a catfish for breakfast
to order a print of this photo, please go to http://www.dreamingsongsphotos.com/
quiet moment of browsing in the cool early morning
even in the heat of the early morning
this male orchard oriole dashed about
from the very top of the highest pine tree
to the point of a small sycamore
to the shadows of the oaks
singing his song of territory
This is an American Snout butterfly.
It has a very descriptive name.
I had a grand time as he explored first my camera
and then my hand – “tasting” the sweat there.
there is a short video of the interaction at http://youtu.be/6FLyHy24XC0
doc ellen's journey 