Osprey Video Diary 2008

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Over the course of summer 2008, volunteer Dave Cole filmed 08 and 5N at their Manton Bay nest and 03 and 05 at Site B. Here are a selection of some of his best clips.

Depending on your internet connection speed, some of these clips may take a few minutes to download .

By the time they were six weeks old the Site B chicks were nearing the size of fully grown ospreys and were already starting to stretch their wings in preparation for their first flight.

Occasionally both male and female will be present to feed the chicks. This video clearly shows the difference between the very white, cleaning-looking adult male bird on the right of the nest and the much browner chest of the female.

In late May, visitors to Waderscrape hide were treated to extraordinary views of a family of Water Rails just a few metres from the front of the hide. Dave Cole captured some of the magical moments on film.

Osprey incubation lasts between 35 and 40 days. Females usually carry out about 75% of the sitting and this video shows 5N in the typical incubation posture; sitting low in the nest with just her head visible.

The video also illustrates just how huge the nest had become by May!

Prior to laying the first egg, 5N made numerous flights to collect clumps of grass to line the nest. She collected most of these clumps from the grass field just north of the nest.

Over the course of the summer, male Ospreys carry out all of the fishing for their family. This clip shows 08 arriving back at the nest with a trout; one of the most commonly caught species at Rutland Water.

In the days leading up to 5N laying the first egg, the birds were frequently observed copulating on the nest. Notice in this clip how the female's tail is raised; proving that this particular attempt was successful.

After finishing a meal, both 08 and 5N often wash the fish scales off their talons by repeatedly diving into the water near the nest.

Crows often prove a nuisance when 08 arrives back at the nest with a fish. This particular individual was especially plucky - attempting to steal the fish from 08's grasp. Unsurprisingly though, it was unsuccessful.