Capt. Cathy Eagle
There is a non-migratory, resident population of osprey in coastal southern Florida. They are also known as the fish hawk. Most osprey however, will winter in Central and South America traveling as much as 5,000 miles across the Caribbean Sea to their breeding site.
Nesting in Southwest Florida begins in December and the nestling period extends into the summer months. A female osprey will choose her mating partner based on the quality and location of the male’s nest.
They almost always reuse their nests, returning to the same breeding site each year and adding new materials to the nest. The massive stick structures (eyries) grow larger and heavier over time becoming several feet deep and weighing hundreds of pounds. Storms such as Hurricane Ian and Milton caused severe damage to many nests requiring significant reconstruction.
Each year the birds add new sticks, twigs, seaweed, and even debris to renovate their nests. The pair, which typically mates for life, will work together to build their nest. The male brings the materials while the female arranges them. They build high in tress, on utility poles, channel markers, and artificial platforms that have been provided to them. Some osprey nests have been known to contain hula hoops, rag dolls, toy boats, and fishing line, which can be dangerous to the birds. Often smaller birds will nest within the large structure when it is not the osprey’s nesting season.
Within 30 days of hatching, the young osprey will be 70-75% of their adult weight. They will fledge about 55 days after hatching but will use the nest as home base for some time as they learn to fish for themselves. Osprey parents will sometimes hold back food in order to encourage fledglings to leave the nest. The young osprey have been known to visit nearby nests where they are fed by other parents.
Capt. Cathy Eagle
Capt. Cathy's Boat Tours
Matlacha, Florida
(239) 994-2572
www.CaptainCathy.com
