Chris Davidson Photography
Osprey-4017-j
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
New Jersey
As this Osprey heads for impact with the water below, I think of the impact we have had on them. This species will forever be tied to the conservation movement that started in the 1950's. Think or even better read about Rachel Carson and her role in wildlife conservation, if your unfamiliar with it.
For instance did you know she was only 57 when she passed and is considered by many to be the mother of our modern day conservation efforts? "Silent Spring" Rachels 1962 book was an awakening to the world of wildlife conservation and an amazing gift to all of us who love it....
Once an Osprey learns how to fish, pretty much all they need is a healthy habitat and fish. In the northern parts of the US this species is migratory, arriving as early as late March with most birds usually heading south again by October, although we often still see a few staying into November in warmer years.
By the 1950's and 60's the Osprey's numbers and breeding success (along with many other species) was being severely impacted by synthetic pesticides and it was discovered that one called DDT was the main culprit. It built up in their systems and inhibited the absorption of calcium, which caused the thinning of the it's eggs.
For younger viewers and birders who may be unfamiliar with this, there is some wonderful information available at this link for further reading.
rachelcarsoncouncil.org/osprey-miracle-20th-century/
Osprey-4017-j
Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
New Jersey
As this Osprey heads for impact with the water below, I think of the impact we have had on them. This species will forever be tied to the conservation movement that started in the 1950's. Think or even better read about Rachel Carson and her role in wildlife conservation, if your unfamiliar with it.
For instance did you know she was only 57 when she passed and is considered by many to be the mother of our modern day conservation efforts? "Silent Spring" Rachels 1962 book was an awakening to the world of wildlife conservation and an amazing gift to all of us who love it....
Once an Osprey learns how to fish, pretty much all they need is a healthy habitat and fish. In the northern parts of the US this species is migratory, arriving as early as late March with most birds usually heading south again by October, although we often still see a few staying into November in warmer years.
By the 1950's and 60's the Osprey's numbers and breeding success (along with many other species) was being severely impacted by synthetic pesticides and it was discovered that one called DDT was the main culprit. It built up in their systems and inhibited the absorption of calcium, which caused the thinning of the it's eggs.
For younger viewers and birders who may be unfamiliar with this, there is some wonderful information available at this link for further reading.
rachelcarsoncouncil.org/osprey-miracle-20th-century/