The chick has definitely changed from the last time I saw it about a week ago. Much bigger, and lots more of the deep rufous colouring on the back of its head. The beak is quite prominent, and it is starting to look more like an adult than a fluffy white chick now.
There are still other birds of prey hanging around, presumably potential nest robbers as the parents are still in constant attendance. A Little Eagle was almost taunting the female adult out of the nest at one point, flying very close by and calling. I haven't noticed such brazen behaviour before from the Little Eagle. Once the male had returned, the Little Eagle was quickly flown beyond the normal perimeter by the female.
The male gave a number of delightful photo opportunities. Eventually when the chick fledges I will be happy for the Buzzards, but a little sad that until they, or another pair come back to raise another chick or two, these moments I am able to capture won't be available as easily as they are now.
Unfortunately the wind was up and the videos taken are very wind-blown, both with noise and camera shake, so I won't be posting any videos from this recent encounter. Hopefully I'll be able to get some wind-free videos this coming weekend.
There are still other birds of prey hanging around, presumably potential nest robbers as the parents are still in constant attendance. A Little Eagle was almost taunting the female adult out of the nest at one point, flying very close by and calling. I haven't noticed such brazen behaviour before from the Little Eagle. Once the male had returned, the Little Eagle was quickly flown beyond the normal perimeter by the female.
The male gave a number of delightful photo opportunities. Eventually when the chick fledges I will be happy for the Buzzards, but a little sad that until they, or another pair come back to raise another chick or two, these moments I am able to capture won't be available as easily as they are now.
Unfortunately the wind was up and the videos taken are very wind-blown, both with noise and camera shake, so I won't be posting any videos from this recent encounter. Hopefully I'll be able to get some wind-free videos this coming weekend.
Black-breasted Buzzard
Male landing, female on nest
Female and chick
Male ruffled feathers
Female landing on perch next to nest
Female on perch about 30 metres south of nest
Male in flight
Male on nest with moon behind
You have been given a great opportunity to obtain fantastic photos of these birds. It is good to see you taking advantage of the situation.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing them too. It's certainly a handsome bird, and one that those of us in the south don't get to see very often.
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