Quote by: jkr

I have a theory about the intruder, but I hope I'm wrong.
Since we're almost certain this is a new female this year I keep wondering if the original female is in the area and trying to claim her nest back again. :dunno: It would really be sad if that's the case.

I have thought the same thing. Particularly since it has continued over such a long period of time.

There are other nests along the river and there is an abundance of fish in the river (and of course a nearby koi pond) - for an intruder to keep at this one nest is rather strange.

I have always wondered how "the pair" meet back up. They migrate south at different times, do not winter in the same area, and migrate north separately. Theoretically, Dad arrives first and two or three days Mom arrives. Now how does Dad know last years Mom is going to arrive? So does the first lady to arrive win the rights to Dad's affection? Before cams, how did any one identify the individuals? By the by, this Mom is banded. I don't think Dad is. Please correct me if this is incorrect.

If she's banded I wonder if she could be one of the chicks from previous years. I suppose it's not impossible and would make sense if it's migrated back to it's original birth area.

I don't recall either Mom or Dad being banded in previous years.

I could be wrong about the band, but I did think I saw one. I will have to keep my eye out now for a good view of her legs.

We have a new visitor



Thank heavens the cam lens is under cover and Charlotte can not take up residence.

MONDAY, MAY 17, 2010



7:35 AM
Unfortunately the camera is still off at this hour of the morning. We're missing out on the sunrises

10:20 am
Turned on the cam to see both adults on the nest.

10:23 am
Dad flew off leaving Mom incubating the eggs.

10:24 am
Dad flew back in again -- It looked as if he brought i a small stick with him.

10:25 am
Dad flies off again.
He headed out over the water and within a moment he returned to the nest.

10:27 am
He flew off once again.


11:02 am
Mom gets up to roll the eggs. I notice she also gives them a nudge with her feet to turn them as well as using her beak.

12:00 MDT

Dad was brooding quietly on the nest. Suddenly his head reared up and he went into defensive mode. Wings spread, challenging,with his eyes watching overhead constantly turning, covering the eggs but still threatening.

Attackers open clawed feet drop into view


A close swipe over the nest


Flies on banking for return trip

Mom lands ready to join the fray


Dad continues his threats


Dad flies off to give chase now that Mom is here to provide cover for the eggs

2:19pm MDT

Dad had been brooding for some time. Mom landed on the nest and stood close, but did not actually shove him off the eggs. He looked up at her and stayed right where he was. Mom left, returned, same scenario. Mom left returned and this time Dad did cooperate. He stood up and flew up, but not off. He flew sideways and had a brief - very brief - encounter with Mom of the personal kind







I really enjoy Dad's flying skills. The way he can lift straight up and maneuver sideways, maintaining his altitude, and land on target - simply amazing This is the third claim/mating (not sure which) I have witnessed since the laying of the third egg.