Although these interesting birds of prey are found nearly world-wide, Ospreys haven’t settled at the lake. I took this photo of a gargantuan nest on a recent trip to Cape Cod.
Ospreys, or Sea Hawks, breed in coastal areas. They build nests of sticks, driftwood, and seaweed on utility poles, in trees, or man-made platforms. It looks like a roof top platform was included in the design for this house. These birds of prey mate for life and often return to the same nesting site year after year, renovating the old nest each season.
Fish make up most of their diet and Ospreys have the ability to spot fish underwater from a height of over 100 feet. When swooping in to capture their prey, they hover momentarily over the surface then plunge feet first into the water.
During the 1950-1970’s Osprey populations declined significantly due to pesticide use. After DDT was banned, they rebounded nicely, but are still considered endangered in a few locations.
Cape Cod is a lovely place with temperate summers, fabulous seafood, charming houses, and great beaches. I think this Osprey is pretty astute to settle there.
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