ospreys are flooding

[lew]

I am constantly amazed with the awesome power of nature, and this flooding of the wetlands is unreal. I have a concern about my osprey friends nesting on a pillar that will soon become flooded. Any ideas, I realize the chicks in the nest might drown but should we provide a box for next years nest while river is high? I know Pitt Lake have nests built that are working well.

[Gord]

Lew, I've also looked at the pilings in the Harrison Area and wondered about creating more nests or raising them too. I hope that with less water than forecasted they'll be ok.

This would be the time for work on the pilings when the water is up there as using ladders and so forth is a challenge.

[lew]

today I saw four adult ospreys flying together, it was a treat to see them. I am much relieved, the water has seemed to have peeked. It got very close to nest. I would sure like help set up a box, I am new to birding however and have a lot to learn so I don't really know how to go about it. Ospreys do not like it when you get close to them, and they stress out so
I do not want to bother them while they are nesting.

[fouram]

Hi, Lew---You like I--am sensitive to the perceived "needs" of nature--then again--like Gord--because of my nature--I find a need to take a step back--and let "nature" take it's course--there is only so much we can do--I feel as if "we" take too proactive an approach to nature---are we actually "watering down" the strength of the species we are trying to protect?

[lew]

Good point fouram, I guess I'm not a step back kind of guy. I always want to step forward and help those in need.

[Gord]

Sure is a balancing act.

Nature needs to take its course, but with the modifications made by humans sometimes it makes sense to step in to try and balance what's being lost in other ways. Probably never two cases are the same but knowledge of what's going on and the species in question can help the decision. Regardless of it being a common sparrow or a rare species, I hate to see them in trouble.

With these ospreys the only chance would be for the chicks to be rescued and taken to OWL. There is a lot of regulations surrounding the handling of protected bird species (other than starlings, house sparrows, cowbirds, crows) so reporting what you see to OWL will help decide what to do. Lew, are they ok now that the water barely hit 6m?

Making a platform for ospreys is pretty easy. A few 2x4's, some wire mesh and a few big branches and sticks to get things started is pretty well all you need. The problem is the ability to mount such a thing!! Ive always wanted to do one too. If I find an opportunity Ill post!

[lew]

Thanks guys I was out there last night and they will be ok, they are about 2feet above water now and the water is going down. I have met the guys from owl, they released an eagle here on the beach for Eaglefest. I was going to call them if it got urgent. Gord this is a fantastic site thank-you for all your hard work