Warning ~ The footage contains material that may be upsetting to sensitive viewers.

It has been a tough few days at the nest as many have observed Rachel struggle with her leg injury in feeding her babies. Steve did step up to feed them but the oldest chick suddenly became aggressive with her younger sibling. The dynamic of the nest changed & we witnessed food aggression as the oldest & more dominant exercised her authority over the youngest.

Survival of the fittest isn't a catch phrase in the osprey world, but necessary to continue their species. Sibling rivalry varies between nests depending quite a bit on the amount of food provided. Even when food is abundant, it is not uncommon to see some sibling competition – lessons learned which will help them cope when they are on their own. In this case, it demonstrates how an injury and a change in how food is offered and how much is available can trigger sibling rivalry suddenly when there wasn't any prior. There are no “bullies”, just osprey chicks trying to survive.

Osprey in addition to other raptors, live day to day with harsh realities that are completely normal to them. It brings new appreciation to nature when you see how these magnificent birds survive in the wild.

We are observers & spectators; given the rare and unique opportunity to witness these osprey survive in the wild. Today has been a good day for the chicks with multiple feedings. The sibling rivalry was still present but was far less than in this video. Hopefully, Rachel will heal and both chicks will grow up & fledge successfully. Thank you for watching!

Video captured & edited by Lady Hawk

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