Gliding on the wind with eyes scanning the ground
After recovering from a drop in numbers some 25+ years ago, Ospreys seem to be thriving again in Northern California. I see them frequently whenever I visit Clear Lake or Lake Berryessa — especially in February through August, when they’re always busy nesting and raising their young. On our recent day trip to Steele Canyon at Lake Berryessa, I noticed two osprey nests nearby; and purely by accident I wound up right underneath a very busy pair. I’m positive they were completely aware of my presence, but happily they didn’t seem at all bothered as they carried on the very important work of rearing the next generation. (Click any image for a closer look.)
This male Osprey flew over my head carrying his fresh catch, a decent-sized Spotted Bass, and although my first shots were too blurry I did capture him perched in a pine tree not far from his nest. He proceeded to eat half the fish and then flew home to deliver the remainder to his mate.
Another return to nest, this time without fish
The female, larger than the male, seems satisfied with her hard-working mate
