How do osprey cope with temperatures above 100 degrees? There are several things I have seen them do.
One is they sit with their mouths open like their are panting. There is a reason they do this. According to Couchiching Conservancy:
Birds have no sweat glands, so the primary way of dissipating excessive heat is by panting, just like a dog. If you see a bird during the hottest part of the day, it will likely have its mouth open. You may or not see that their throat is moving up and down, ridding heat from their body through the open bill.
Another way they cope is the mom will take short flights from the nest and go into the water to cool off. I have seen her float for a little while then fly back to the nest. So swimming or taking a dip helps them cool off.
In addition, when the mom returns to the nest after a dip she will shield her young from the sun under her wings. The nest is exposed, so she is shading them from the sun like an umbrella. I have seen the babies huddle under her wings.
Also, I have seen the mom flap her wings or stretch them out more as the temperature rises. According to Couchiching Conservancy:
Another method they employ is to spread their wings and body feathers which allows heat to dispel and cool air to circulate between them.
Like a crazy person, I stood out to watch them in the afternoon of the days the temperatures reached 100 plus. I brought plenty of water and did not stay near the amount of time I normally stay. Take precautions when out and about and have a great Sunday.
Sharon's Iconic Travel Photography Blog 
Poor birds! It’s tough watching man-made climate change impact on wildlife.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Temperatures are in the 80s today. They seem to like the current temperatures.
LikeLike
Oh, that must be a relief for them! My sister’s in Med at the moment, and it’s super hot.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Mediterranean can get quite hot in summer.
LikeLike
Interesting account, Sharon. And the birds are smart. Sometimes smarter than their ever “we are smarter thinking” human equivalents.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They seem to be. I read that Osprey are in decline in Virginia. They are on the rise in NY. They should figure out why. It’s probably an environmental issue.
LikeLike
The babies are so BIG and beautiful. Wonderful post full of beauty and information.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They are getting bigger. You can see them more now in the nest.
LikeLike
Definitely. 🤗
LikeLike
That’s miserable for everybody. I’m wishing all of you cooler days ahead!
LikeLike
Luckily the worst of it lasted about 3-4 days. They seemed to be doing well yesterday. During these days they did make me feel like they were miserable. We can go in our air conditioned car for a break. They do not have that luxury.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad it has cooled off some. I’m always full of admiration for all the creatures who brave heat and cold with just one single outfit. They are far more adaptable than we are.
LikeLike