Greetings from Holtwood
The weather has been uncooperative for getting good photos of the nestlings. It’s been almost a month since the last report, at which time the chicks had mostly gray down feathers. On May 26, between threats of a thunderstorm, and under cloudy and hazy conditions, I was able to get some photos showing all three chicks. The oldest, on the left, is showing well-developed flight feathers, and had been exercising its wings. During this photo session, the male parent was perched on the very top of the nest tower. Mom was probably out getting some food, taking a bath, or just exercising.
It was very quiet by the river today: no water was roaring over the dam and the threat of thunderstorms kept the traffic very low. Tree frogs were singing, however, as well as Baltimore and orchard orioles, indigo buntings, chats and yes, cerulean warblers. No activity was seen on either osprey nest; one adult on each, but no chicks visible. One osprey was spotted still carrying sticks in its talons.
All the nesting raptors appear to be doing pretty well; it’s been a good spring for raising "younguns" so far.
The next eagle watch, Saturday, June 10, will hopefully show a little more activity than I witnessed on May 26. To participate in the 10 a.m. eagle watch, meet at the Lock 12 Historic Area off Route 372 on the York County side of the Norman Wood Bridge. Bring binoculars and dress for outdoor weather.
Jim Smith, Consulting Naturalist
PPL Holtwood Environmental Preserve
Holtwood, Lancaster County, Pa.