Notes to Self. Tangled Lines

 

A tall pole stands topped with the massive nest of Osprey family. Below it, loose nesting materials dangle like tangled threads. 

Now and then, little unfamiliar birds appear on these hanging strands, lingering for a heartbeat before flying away. 

***

The idea to edit the scene in high key didn't come right away. But when, a photograph by the Finnish photographer Pentti Sammallahti surfaced in my memory, everything suddenly fell into place.

Of course—it had to be high-key.  It would leave nothing but silhouettes and winding strands as compelling lines.

India, Delhi, 1999, Pentti Sammalahti

On the Country Roads. Shadowed Gaze

 

Summer Stories - II

 

or memories...

Osprey Saga - I. A Male Osprey Brings Nesting Material

Four years after the final pages of the previous Osprey Saga drew to a close in 2022, the next generation’s story opens with the male Osprey delivers fresh nesting material to his waiting family.

***

I watched the male Osprey for a while as he kept an eye on his babies. Then he was gone, only to surprise me fifteen minutes later by flying back to the nest with what he thought would be a valuable addition.  His choice of material was quite unique.

Unfortunately, that plastic rope he carried can be tangled hazard for his chicks.  I hope so much that they will be safe.

Flight requires a continuous cycle of raising and lowering the wings. What you are seeing here is the downstroke (or the push phase) of his flight cycle.

Wings spread and talons full, an osprey approaches its massive nest with a fresh find to secure it.

"Honey, I'm home... and I brought back some new decor!" 

A male Osprey delivers his find to his mate as he prepares to land on their nest.

Generally, life is good.