Osprey Platform #4: Nest Building in Ernest

E-Mail & Photos from Jim Martin:

Fellow Osprey Observers:

After being here only five days, the Osprey pair on Platform #4 (Alum Creek) have made short work of getting their nest prepared. The Osprey traveled a good distance from the nest to get the corncob & corn stalk for the nest. Also notice the grasses, a sign that copulation and egg-laying are not far away. This pair should have a head-start versus others that may arrive - same as last year.

Last I heard, March 23rd, the Osprey returning from Brazil SA was in Georgia, USA. Dick Phillip's prediction of an end of month arrival looks like the best estimate.

Observation Conditions:

Date: March 25, 0935-1103 Hours,

Skies: Mostly cloudy, low overcast and fog,

Temperatures: 68° to 72°,

Winds: Mild at 5-8 MPH,

Birds Present: Two adult Osprey, one Pileated Woodpecker,

Behavior: Nest building, fishing, bonding. Resting (both) on the perch for about a half hour.

Observers: State Parks Officer, three autos with 5 adults.

Equipment Used: Binoculars, Nikon Camera and Lens.

PS: Jim Duffy reported,between 1600-1730, that a small fishing boat with three fishermen, ignored the warning signs, got in close to this platform and caused the Osprey to leave the nest. With 22,500 acres of open waters, you would think these boneheads could find a fishing spot elsewhere. Perhaps they missed "reading" classes.

Best Wishes,

Jim Martin