Can you believe our two young ospreys are now almost half grown? The oldest of them is four weeks old today and halfway to its fledging size and age! They are both beginning to resemble small chickens in size- just compare them to that tiny egg!
As well as their physical development, their behaviour is getting more complex and interesting too. Like babies the world over, at first they just eat and sleep, but as they grow, they are beginning to imitate their parents.
Many of you will have observed the chicks getting bolder and wandering around the nest- even peering over the edge! Rest assured that the survival instinct usually stops them going over, but it serves a serious purpose too- strengthening the vital leg muscles. You may also have seen the chicks picking up sticks and moving things around the nest- also crucial preparation for the coordination they will need to feed themselves all too soon.
The chicks are also beginning to vocalise more, and practise social behaviours that they will need – for although ospreys spend many months of the year essentially solo, all birds need social skills!
What other changes in behaviour have you observed? Let us know.
Emma Rawling