New State-wide Osprey Nest Survey
Osprey at Nest by Jake Dingel
The 2nd Breeding Bird Atlas results have indicated that this PA threatened species has greatly expanded its breeding range since the reintroduction program (1980-1996) and we are interested in learning more about its current distribution and habitat use. We would love to convert the number of blocks to the number of nesting pairs.
This project is being coordinated by our Endangered bird biological aide, Cathy Haffner. If you would be willing to provide information on Osprey nests in your area or have any questions about the project, please email her (cdhaffner@yahoo.com) and she will send you a survey form that we developed for this project. The form also can be found at the PGC website in teh Endangered species pages. Two site visits may be needed – one very soon to see if a nest is active and a second one later in the season (late June to mid July) to count young. You may already know of a few nests that you watch each year. This information will help to update the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program database and better understand the Osprey's current status. Please don't assume that we already know of a nest or that somebody else will report it.
Please also the new Endangered bird pages in the Wildlife section (check out the Quick Clicks box on the right) and look for "What you can do to help" section. For information on Osprey natural history, please visit the updated threatened and endangered species accounts in the Wildlife section (full of information).
We also are engaging PBBA coordinators and our many endangered bird conservation partners in this project, so please forgive the cross-postings and multiple inquiries. We are attempting blanket coverage in this new endeavor!
Ospreys often nest near lakes, reservoirs, swamps, and rivers especially those with extensive flat water. Many Ospreys nest on human-made structures, making their nests fairly prominent and easy to observe. Any of these places also can be great places for other water birds. Have fun birding there!
Thank you in advance for your assistance with this project!
The picture was provided by Jake Dingel, Pennsylvania Game Commission employee and wildlife photographer.
