How Do You Clear Every Form Of Wildlife At Alum Creek Res.?

E-mail & photos from Jim Martin:

Howdy:

For the first hour everything was peaceful and calm at the Osprey viewing location along Alum Creek Reservoir. The remaining single young Osprey at platform #1 was peacefully awaiting nightfall. The White Egrets and Great Blue Herons were enjoying the gentle flowing waters (for first time is weeks) coming from the upstream creek bed.

Then off in the distance, at the Preservations Parks viewing location, I heard the most unsuspected clatter. A veritable cacophony of harsh, jarring, and discordant sounds about a half mile away. The reservoir's topography provided a perfect amphitheater for the crescendos. Within seconds every living creature was on the move, including me. I drove to the cliff to meet a budding artist who was not there to practice his percussion-isitics, rather to get a few promotional photos. Brandon Burdette and his girl friend had set up shop at the site and photos were snapped. Brandon gets ten points for originality, 2 demerits for disruption of tranquility.

Back to business - The five frequent Osprey Observers all agree that the Female and one of the two youngsters has left the area - platform #1. Perhaps they have headed South to the Amazon River in Brazil, or just relocated to a spot where there is a more abundant food supply. The two of them have not been seen in two+ weeks. Similarly, I have not seen the Parents from platform #4 in at least a week. I do see an occasional youngster at platform #4. Migration dates are predicted around September 15th so there is a chance that some have already left for their Wintering location just South of the equator. PS: The Male Osprey (TM) from platform #1 is still feeding the remaining youngster. We are moderately concerned that the little one has not learned to hunt.

It is almost time for Dave Sherman-ODNR to fire-up his satellite tracking gear as the Transmitting Male Osprey should be departing soon.

Best Wishes,
Jim Martin
Sept. 9, 2007.