Yellowstone,  Vacation,  Jul 14, 2003 - Jul 19, 2003     page 23 / 36

On our way back to the car, we passed a man with a tripod and telescope which he had aimed at an Osprey nest half way down the valley. The large nest was perhaps four feet in diameter and was perched precariously on the top of a rock pillar. This allowed the best protection from predators. He let us view the nest, complete with mother and two chicks. The mother and father work together to protect the offspring. If the nest is unguarded for just a few minutes the peregrine falcon will steal the babies for a snack. An empty nest further up the canyon was evidence that this had already occurred there.

It was obvious from this hike that the morning light would make this area extremely beautiful for viewing. Libby and I returned before breakfast the next day. We had the area all to ourselves for nearly 30 minutes. We stared in awe at the sight. We also found the Osprey nest with the binoculars.