Author Archives: Harriett Raptor

Ozzie’s sky dance was almost perfunctory this year. Already he has won me over, has my heart, and he knows it. Unfortunately, he also knows I’m crazy in love with him. He hasn’t put on much of a show this … Continue reading →

Great News! The cameras are up and operational. If you want to follow Ozzie and me, go to the blog page and “Subscribe by email.” The link to the cameras are just below the “Subscribe by E-mail”. You should be … Continue reading →

Many H. sapiens don’t realize how perilous migration can be for birds.  They just chalk it up to something we do and go about their business. Bird migration is usually not even on the minds of modern-day H. sapiens.  But, … Continue reading →

                                                                  Harriett O. Raptor 8-year-old mother of five, lifelong … Continue reading →

Harriett Raptor This is Harriett’s third winter at the Santo Antônio Dam reservoir.  Do not consider her a juvenile anymore.  She has become one remarkable bird, fully capable of the challengers before her.  At this time in her life she is … Continue reading →

Given the extraordinary distances over which birds migrate, it is absolutely essential that they have precise navigation skills. Failure to find a place to land, rest, and/or feed will nearly guarantee a wayward bird’s death. “It’s not just us,” said … Continue reading →

Migrating birds can cover thousands of miles in their annual travels, often traveling the same course year after year with little deviation. First-year birds make their very first migration on their own. Somehow they can find their winter home despite never having seen it … Continue reading →

“Something’s not right,” said Jesse. Abigail had the same feeling.  She felt a restlessness, a need to move. “Where the heck is everyone, anyway?”  She continued. David was picking apart a speckled trout, oblivious to the conversation.  Abby turned to … Continue reading →

The Doctor    “Ozzie left Friday; Harriett left Saturday.” said the Doctor. The three juveniles are about to begin their rough, harsh adult lives, that which makes life beautiful. Abigail continues to hang around the Taj Mahal. She and David … Continue reading →

Preening feathers is an important activity for many birds especially aquatic birds.. Birds rub their bill against an oily sac at the base of the upper tail feathers, called a “preen gland,” and distribute oil over their feathers. They adjust … Continue reading →