Can you help watch Osprey nests?
Photo by Brenda Rich
July 13, 2020 — Connecticut’s Osprey nests are full of baby Ospreys getting ready to fly. You can help by finding a nest and letting the Osprey Nation project know what you see.
Osprey Nation volunteers have sent in data on more than 400 nests this summer. There are scores more that are on the map but not being monitored.
That’s where you can help.
- First, check the map below and find a gray pin near you; it represents a nest for which we have no data this year.
- Then, fill out the Steward Sign-up Form to let us know who you are and which nest you’d like to volunteer to monitor.
- You’ll also want to review the guide for Osprey Nation stewards. It’s from several years ago but it still applies.
- Then visit the nest you’ve signed up for. Look especially for young birds. Make notes on what you see. We estimate that you’ll have to spend about 15 minutes every other week, per nest.
- Finally, after you’ve visited the nest, fill out this form and click send.
Remember to sign up only for nests marked with a gray pin.
Why is this important? Since 2014, the volunteers for Osprey Nation have been collecting data on the resurgence of the state’s Osprey population. Connecticut Audubon shares it with state environmental officials.
Over time, if the number of Ospreys falls, the data will serve as an early-warning system for environmental problems that might be causing the changes.
Questions? Email osprey@ctaudubon.org
