You know it's late spring or early summer when you see ducklings or goslings! Did you know that Canada Geese sometimes gather their goslings into a nursery group, which is guarded and 'taught' by some of the older females? Mallard females can have broods of up to 12 ducklings. Female mergansers (bottom l) and Eared Grebes (bottom r), carry their young on their backs when very newly hatched.
By the water you are also likely to see Ospreys (below). These fish-eating hawks build their nests on high platforms, the tops of dead trees or sometimes power poles within easy flying distance of a source of fish to feed themselves and their offspring. Ospreys are dramatic and entertaining to watch as they hover, then dive feet first into the water to emerge with a fish in their talons. The fish is turned so that the head faces forward, to reduce drag and the bird carries it almost as if riding a skateboard back to the feeding station or nest.
(Move mouse over images at bottom of page to enlarge &/or see captions.)
By the water you are also likely to see Ospreys (below). These fish-eating hawks build their nests on high platforms, the tops of dead trees or sometimes power poles within easy flying distance of a source of fish to feed themselves and their offspring. Ospreys are dramatic and entertaining to watch as they hover, then dive feet first into the water to emerge with a fish in their talons. The fish is turned so that the head faces forward, to reduce drag and the bird carries it almost as if riding a skateboard back to the feeding station or nest.
(Move mouse over images at bottom of page to enlarge &/or see captions.)
Osprey male with fish
