Two Awesome Osprey Nests

I first saw these magnificent birds while living in Panama. It was around Thanksgiving I saw one  sitting on a dead branch that stuck out the top of a tree across from our house. It took me a month before I finally found a bird book that helped me identify it. I've been watching a couple of pairs and nests at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge. Two weeks ago the chicks were still small but now they are exercising their wings and are a good size. Hope you enjoy!   The first nest in the marsh.

The second nest along Cross Bay Boulevard

In Flight

Golden-Crowned Kinglet, Jones Beach Boat Basin

I did a little birding this weekend visiting a favorite place, Jamaica Bay, and trying out some new places, Jones Beach Boat Basin and Oceanside Marine Nature Study area. I saw a pair of Clapper Rails at the Marine Nature Study area. They ran out of the berm and then just as quickly disappeared back under it, not to be seen for the rest of the afternoon, although I heard them once.

Tree Swallows, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
Oystercatcher, Jones Beach Boat Basin

Osprey, Marine Nature Study Area
Osprey launch, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Mute Swan, Jamaica Bay Wildlife

Canadian Geese, Jones Beach Boat Basin