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Erecting one of
18 new Osprey platforms in late fall 2000
Special thanks to the Delmarva Ornithological Society, the
Conserve Wildlife Foundation, and the New Jersey Endangered Species
Program, and volunteers.
The 2006 Osprey nesting count was 36 chicks ...all nests occupied. The 2005 count was 26-27 chicks fledged. 2005 was the first time that all of the nests were occupied!
Osprey
nest results from the 2002 and 2003 seasons were disappointing.
In 2001, the first year the platforms were monitored and erected
with several state and private organizations, there was a total
of 25 chicks that fledged(left the nest). In '02 only 10 chicks
fledged and in '03, 12. This decline in nest success was seen
statewide on the Atlantic coast. Biologists have attributed
this to weather. We had cold wet and windy springs the last
two years possibly delaying fish migration and spawning while
increasing water turbidity making it difficult for the Ospreys
to see the fish. The number of nests used during the same period
rose, continuing a trend that dates to the original re-intraduction.
Last year there were 366 active nests statewide, compared to
around 50 in the early 1970's. With increasing numbers of birds
nesting we have optimism that these results are temporary blips
in the overall pattern and 2004 will be a more successful year
for the Ospreys! |
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Unlimited has long been associated with efforts to promote and preserve
our local nesting species and salt marsh habitat. Preserving our habitat
efforts revolve around education. On most cruises detailed narration
about the importance of the salt marsh ecology and it's interdependence
with the marine world are discussed and demonstrated. Learn and experience
why salt marshes are known as the nursery of the oceans. This incredible
abundance and diversity are often demonstrated with the use of dip
nets and touch tanks. Come see, feel, touch and even taste one of
the richest ecosystems on earth and realize why it's essential we
preserve it!
Wildlife Unlimited, aboard the Skimmer, through
joint efforts with the N.J. Div. of Fish, Game and Wildlife Endangered
and Nongame Species Program, the Conserve Wildlife Foundation,
the Delmarva Ornithological Soc. and numerous volunteers have erected
18 osprey nesting platforms in the last year!
Early observations, (4/5/01) indicated at
least 3/4 of the platforms are already occupied! We also participated
by alerting the ENSP to an attempt by endangered Black Skimmers
to recolonize the nesting site on Champagne island and then transporting
personnel and materials to the island in Hereford
inlet to rope off the nesting colony. See photos below.
Anyone interested in donating funds to help
defray the cost of the osprey platforms can contact the Delmarva
Ornithological Soc. c/o Osprey Projects, P.O. Box 4247, Wilmington,
Del., 19807; or Conserve Wildlife c/o ENSP P.O. 400, 501 State St.,
Trenton, NJ 08642-0400, ph # 609-292-1276.
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