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I along with the sun rose at 5:44 am. I was at the Osprey nest with the rented 500mm by 6:15am. I was anxious to get out while the light was perfect. Upon arrival I could see one of the parents sitting watch on the nest. Generally, as I approach the nest and entered into their perceived danger zone, the adult will fly off circling the nest while the hatchlings duck down, hiding from the enemy. Today, to my surprise, Mama flew off in the direction of a near by electric pole. There she joined two of her off spring. They had fledged! This being much like children taking their first steps. I estimate their age to be about 12 weeks.

Over the next month, they will continue to practice their aerial maneuvers and fishing techniques until they are successfully at both. At which time the family will migrate to a warmer winter climate.