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.

On the Backroads

Pleased to see seven deer (only one from the record of eight) browsing in my backyard this week. It seems that the deer have had a good winter as they all appear healthy. We went for a drive "on the backroads" Saturday and found this waterfall that was just over a meter high and had  washed away the road we were traveling on.. Later, three deer seemed unconcerned and posed for a pic.

Spring n Deer

Today I'm very happy because regardless of what the calendar says, I know that spring is here because the deer have returned to my backyard from their wintering grounds.

Winter 2013

Not much to say, just a few pictures with my new camera.