Osprey again

The Osprey, also known as a Fish Hawk, is one of the larger Raptors with a body length of up to 2 feet and  a wingspan approaching 6 feet. The Osprey can be found on every continent except Antarctica and have a global population of approximately 500,000. Nests, built of sticks in trees and on power lines, are located near water as fish make up 99% of the Osprey's diet. The Osprey generally mates for life and reaches reproductive maturity at about 3-4 years when the female lays 2-4 eggs. The average lifespan is 7-10 years. For more info see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osprey






















 

Neighbourly Love

This guy just recently moved into my backyard. I have heard many horror stories regarding groundhog conduct, but I am remiss to recall a one. Even though he appears to be a little grumpy, I am reluctant to "google" him to discover his past. I think instead we will co-habitate and occasionally share some neighbourly love

April's End

Its nice to see the Osprey have returned, (check out the talons on the first pic) and I found a new nest this week....looks very sturdy. The picture of the hawk/falcon (possibly a Merlin falcon) was taken from my kitchen window shortly after daybreak as he was silently watching my backyard. When he saw me coming the yellow bellied sap-sucker took his time finishing his lunch, but the young porcupine ran away, almost before I could get the camera up. I'm always looking to collect pussy willows for my Aunt Jo, and the first ones I see this year are surrounded by spring flood waters. Finally, a beautiful sunset over a placid Keyhole Lake.