When Will They Hatch…
In my exploring this spring, I found a great area for Osprey nests right near the coast. This area is in the narrow tip of a peninsula with the open ocean on one side and the sound on the other. The Ospreys love fishing on the Sound and the nesting areas are a short distance away. Many of the nests are occupied and it is the season for keeping those eggs warm.
The breeding season usually starts in March, except for Ospreys that are yearlong residents in Florida. They start breeding as early as late November. In my case, I have been watching (March – April) 3 different nests. All three are active with male and female birds.
It has been exciting to watch as the male Osprey brings back fish for Mom as she sits on the eggs. She will protect these eggs for approximately 39 days. The entire breeding period is about 3 months. I have also observed that the male will come and relieve his mate, by covering the eggs, while she takes a fly-about to stretch her wings and possibly even fish.
When the male Osprey catches a fish, I have observed 2 different habits; 1- He will eat part of it before taking the rest to the nest (see the featured image in this post). 2- I have also watched as he brings the fish to the nest first and then flies to a nearby tree to eat his portion.
Most Osprey mate for life, it is fun to see them work together as they build the nest and safeguard the eggs. I love watching Ospreys simply because of their size and command of the air. Wing spans can reach up to 6 feet when they are soaring, but fold quickly when diving for fish. They hit the water feet first with their talons stretched out. Once they catch a fish, they can grip it firmly because of a reversible outer toe.
All Images taken by the author © Randy G. Barney Photography