The Return of the Osprey

We've been waiting for our migrating Ospreys to return to the pond, a bit concerned because we hadn't seen them yet. They usually show up just before the fishing derby held annually at the pond at Lions Park. On Friday they stocked the pond with several hundred trout in anticipation of this morning's event. At 8 a.m. the kids (14 and under) were let in and took up their positions. We enjoy watching the kids catch their first fish, usually within a few minutes (these are hatchery fish, after all).

Some of the kids seem to be old hands at fishing, deftly reeling in their catch and taking it off the hook. Others are not so sure, and wait for parental help. It's a great activity for families, and everyone seems to have a great time.

Mid-morning we glimpse a large bird soaring across the valley toward us and for the first time this spring an Osprey hovers over the pond. He/she  makes several passes but seems disconcerted by all the people around the pond. He makes several circles around the pond and flies off. Later in the morning he's back, and with fewer people fishing he hovers, then dives for a fish, flying off with his prize. Quite a show for the onlookers.

Osprey spend the winter from Mexico through northern South America. There's a great video about tracking Osprey migration at Oregon Public Broadcasting. Remember that Osprey are a federally protected species, and it's illegal to harm or harass them.