Osprey Watch
A Volunteer Citizen Science Program
Description
Ospreys made a tremendous comeback after suffering productivity loss due to the pesticide DDT.
Osprey are found worldwide and are very recognizable. Many Osprey in the western hemisphere migrate while
some portions of the Florida population do not. Ospreys nest in live pines, dead pines and artificial
structures such as cell towers. They are extremely 'adaptable' and comfortable around human activity so
nests are often found on light structures in busy parking lots and even on dangerously low roadside signs.
Often they are found nesting on power poles or transmission towers. The future well-being of the Ospreys depends
upon the quality and quantity of fish as well as the availability of suitable nesting habitat.
Volunteer opportunities
- Count Osprey nests throughout Pinellas County
- Monitor particular nests
- Identify threats to nests
- Keep year to year records of nests
- Count young produced annually
- Compile data to analyze current trends
- Compile data for publication to educational and conservation groups
- Determine migration percentages among various groups of Osprey
- Share educational information about Ospreys
- Report Osprey mortalities
- Work on the DunedinOspreyCam.com
- Expand awareness statewide about Osprey behavior
Contact
Barbara Walker barbibird@tampabay.rr.com or call 727-442-9140
Downloads
Download and share the printable Osprey Watch flyer
Download and share Osprey Nest Removal Policies from Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)
Download and share Guidelines for Working near an Active Osprey Nest from FWC