LETTER: Thanks, Snappy's

For the last couple of weeks, I have visited Snappy’s Osprey Webcam. The empty nest was clear evidence that fall was in the air and the osprey have flown south for the winter.

Duchess left first, once she knew her two offspring were able to fend for themselves. Next Duke headed south after staying behind a couple more weeks to ensure the two offspring (named Lewis & Clark!) were able to catch fish all by themselves.

Yes, it was a sign that summer was over and winter is now not far behind, but thanks to Snappy’s, I thoroughly enjoyed having a “bird’s-eye” view into the lives of these amazing raptors during the spring and summer.

What a gift Snappy Sport Senter gave us to observe firsthand the lifestyle of the osprey. I have always been fascinated by them and wondered what goes on in those high nests all around the valley. In short, I witnessed the patience Duchess had sitting on those eggs, the hatching of two eggs, Duke and Duchess nurturing their babies, watching them get ready for their first flight, and Duke feeding Duchess as she took care of their chicks.  

    What a sheer delight it has been to observe these special raptors.  I wish them all well, and look forward to next spring when Duke and Duchess return! Thank you so much to Snappy’s! —Rose Cutrone, Kalispell