In honor of Greenbelt's most recent (now retired) presidents, the two feather balls being raised by Annie and Squam will go by the names of Ed (Becker) and Kate (Bowditch). Ed and Kate are now 20 days old or so, and appear to be thriving. The attached photo shows the chicks in the shade under Annie, as Squam watches from the perch.
Annie has had her work cut out for her with more than just multiple daily meals. She has also had to shield them from blistering heat and sun, as well as shelter them for strong winds and rains. But she is mom extraordinaire, and Squam just delivers the fish day after day after day. The appear on their way to another successful nesting season. When Ed and Kate get to about 40 days, we will give them some bling (bands) they they will carry as an identifier for the rest of their lives.
Around the regions, many active nests are now being reported with chicks and this is exciting for everyone but especially the intrep[id nest monitors who get a chance to see their pairs achieving success. It is very gratifying for them I an sure. So far this group of 30+ volunteers has submitted more than 150 online reports. That is remarkable. My best estimate today is that we will see an increase of 3-5 pairs in 2025 more than the 90 pairs observed in 2024.