Day 64....Osprey fledges!

[EricD]

Young Osprey finally fledged this morning (day 64) at 7:59 a.m. We could tell last night that this morning would be the day. After following this nest for so many years i have their behavior pretty down packed.
First shot is the initial leap out of the nest. As you can see he jumped in the opposite direction. went back in the late afternoon, chick was back in the nest but shortly gave me another aerial show. Here are a few:

the leap of the nest.....

 

[camz]

After following this nest for so many years i have their behavior pretty down packed.

Now that's what I call "scouting".

Great shots Eric.

 

[Derrel]

Great shots man, really awesome. I love the clarity and contrast that Nikkor 200-400 lens yields in that beautiful Florida light. It makes the birds look so real!

 

[Hardrock]

Fantastic images! Can you give us a little info on your preparation and setup before and during the shot as far as handheld/tripod , are you out in the open, full camo , in a blind, do you camp out the night before. Just curious as I realize how difficult it is to get images like these. Thanks.