Osprey - Unusal Fight Sequence

E-mail and photo From Jim Martin:

Fellow Naturalist & Observers:

High Drama at Alum Creek Osprey Site.

Dick Tuttle reported that two females showed-up at platform #1 at the Alum Creek Osprey nesting site yesterday - 4/1/2007. Dick predicted a potential battle - he was correct.

This morning after a two hour wait both females were MIA. The Male awaited as we (Tuttle & I) departed after two hours+. This afternoon I decided to take another look to see if the Females returned. After a short wait, the two female showed and with vengeance. After a few nest fly-bys the two locked talons well above the platform and plunged into the reservoir still with talons locked onto each other. Once locked together they were not flying. The Ladies were very serious about the territory, the nest site, or the Male.

In the past, a territorial skirmish lasted a just a few moments and the dominant Osprey soared in victory as the less worthy Osprey disappeared into the horizon. This fight sequence was much different this time. They fought what seemed to be forever - in the waters, fourteen min and 29 seconds. They float just fine. It was not a casual confrontation. Their talons were locked for the entire time and at times one of the Osprey was completely underwater. Neither Osprey would give quarter to the other as they beat one another with their 4.5 - 5+' wingspan. They did not hesitate to "peck" wildly at each other with ferocity and purpose. After the fight the dominate Female soared above the nest as the lesser flew East out of sight. The dominate Female then landed on platform #1 next to the Male who was casually eating a fish. During the sequence the Male (TM) never left the nest. I am still researching my 192 photos but I am quite certain that the 2nd female could be the Female from last year (2006) as she has two leg bands (Blue - Ohio, & Sliver - US F&G).

As the fight continued several Canadian Geese were overcome with curiosity and surrounded the Osprey as spectators. The photo I attached does not do justice to this the battle scene.

Observation Conditions:

Skies: Clear - Heavy Sun,

Temperature: 71° to 73°,

Winds: Gusty, Over 15 MPH,

Other Observers: None,

Time Of Day: 1612 - 1652 Hours,

Notes: Unusual Osprey Fight Sequence -Two Females,

(Jim Martin)