Osprey family heads south

The Ayers Island osprey family members have left their nest and started their migration south, a sure sign that autumn is just around the corner. The adults generally leave first while the young continue to hone their flying and hunting skills before embarking on the 3,000 to 4,000 mile journey. By now, all 5 birds should be well on their way to their winter home in South America.

The adult osprey had a fantastic year raising 3 osprey chicks. It’s been six years since the birds first settled in at Ayers Island. The first year they devoted most of their energy building their new home and getting settled. Since then they’ve been busy successfully raising 12 young!