"AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL, WE HAVE A PROBLEM"

Ospreys (Immature) - 6 Photos

In approximately one month, the Osprey family will be heading south to warmer climates for the Winter months. There the youngsters will remain for at least two years before returning north again, where they will eventually mate. Their parents, of course, will return next Spring to start the family process all over again.

For now, the young Ospreys are working on their flying skills and endurance, with some diving practices included for that all important fishing technique.

It can be slightly difficult, at times, to differentiate between the three siblings. However, from previous events, I believe the Osprey at the right of the photo is the "middle child" with the youngest at the left of the photo.

They were perching on the same dead tree branch. However, the youngest was on a smaller one angling up and providing a higher vantage point (Photo #1). So when he/she decided to take off southward, it was directly in line over the head of the sibling (Photo #2 & Photo #3).

Maybe it was the dexterity or the ignorance of youth or perhaps, it was just easier to duck. Why waste energy when you can merely "shrug" your way out of the situation. 

The extent of the near miss can be seen in Photo #4 through Photo #6. The older of the two didn't seem to be phased by the close encounter. Having made a quick couple of laps around the surrounding area, when Junior returned, both went back to hanging out together. 

PHOTO #1

PHOTO #2

PHOTO #3

PHOTO #4

PHOTO #5

PHOTO #6