8 Weeks Old
This picture illustrates three different stages of maturation toward flight. The juvenile on the perch has already fledged. Nestled in the middle and not yet ready to attempt flying is likely the youngest chick. Leaping about and hoping for a maiden voyage is the second oldest osprey. Their progression appears to be spaced three days apart.

A number of days are spent exercising the wings, experimenting with lift and leaping about before fledging.




Check out "Fish and Chicks...The Story of the Maurice River Osprey" for more information on osprey!