This osprey family nests on a platform on the Patuxent River in beautiful Southern Maryland.   I find myself visiting frequently, just to see what they are up to.  Three (3) chicks were born but with today’s visit I only spotted 1.  I’m not sure where the other 2 chicks were — I doubt if they left the nest yet because that’s usually 8 to 10 weeks after their first flight.  So… I’ll be back looking for them.

So…   How can you tell the difference between the males and females?
The females are often larger than the males.  Females have wingspans almost five feet, and weigh up to four pounds; males weigh about two pounds. They have a characteristic black stripe through the eye and have charcoal and white feathers.

Tiptoeing through the tulips, sorta (19 May 2016)

Ospreys are devoted parents – A little sushi for the chick (16 June 2016)

Momma and her 3 chicks (16 June 2016)

Ospreys mate for life — Mom, Dad & Chick (16 Jun 2016)

Soaring (16 June 2016)

Old and Young Osprey (13 July 2016)

Ospreys mature after 2 years of age – Old and Young Osprey (13 July 2016)

Chick, waiting for mom to come home