It has been almost a month since I last checked in on the Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Last month they were busy collecting materials to build or repair their nests. Last Friday I spotted several nests that had grown considerably in size and the ospreys in the nests appeared to be sitting on their eggs.
I captured this image when one of the sitting ospreys had lifted her head to the sky, looking with hopeful expectation for her mate to return. Maybe he would be bringing her a fresh fish or perhaps he would be spelling her a bit from her maternal duties or could it be that she simply longer for his presence.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
They did a good job on those nests.
This is actually one that I photographed earlier that I thought was in a location that seemed really precarious. https://michaelqpowell.com/2020/03/30/osprey-nest-building/
I remember that. They are pretty good contractors.
Nice Mike! Glad you can still get out & about to photograph! Here everything is off limits. Only can go out for essentials. Stay safe!
If I have not previously told you how very much these posts and photographs add to my day, allow me to correct that neglectful omission right now. Whilst my backyard view of wildlife is enjoyable and entertaining, it is limited in its scope. You provide beautiful glimpses of a world that exceeds my little corner, not to mention the information and explanations that are beneficial and welcome too. “Osprey looking up” is a beautiful example of just that! Thank-you, Mr. Mike!
You really nailed this hopeful-looking portrait, MIke. What a super capture!
Thanks, Gary. I know that I’m supposed to avoid anthropomorphizing my wild subjects, but sometimes I just can’t help myself. 🙂
Funny how I read your post “Joyful Expectation” and then opened this one which also refers to expectation. It’s nice to cultivate a feeling of expectation at this time.
I guess that I am guilty of plagiarizing myself, but I do believe that it is important to try to remain hopeful and positive, especially during this time of crisis.
Expectation is a great focus! It’s also great that you’ve been finding lots of colour – which I’ve really enjoyed!
She does look kind of wistful.
Wonderful photo and I like your ponderous thoughts, too!