2010 Osprey 5k race results!

WCCB
Osprey Project

Check out the 2009 Osprey Blog!

It's not too early to jump on board for the 2010 Osprey Project. Click here to learn how.

In the summer of 2009, the Warren County Conservation Board will join the statewide Osprey Reintroduction Project. This program is a community based environmental project designed to reintroduce the osprey into Iowa’s landscape.

Why are osprey being introduced to various Iowa locations? DDT pesticides and habitat loss has seen a decline in osprey populations. Introducing or hacking young osprey into a specific area allows them to bond with their surroundings. If successful, the birds will return to that area as breeding adults. Osprey prefer to nest where they were raised. In turn, this process should bring the Osprey back to Iowa, in particular to the Indianola area.

Osprey are spectacular birds to watch, particularly when they are feeding. Hovering high above a lake, river or pond, these large white and dark-brown birds search for fish cruising near the surface. Spotting one, they quickly fold their wings and dive, hitting the water talons first. Osprey are the only species of bird that completely submerges when diving for fish. The bottoms of an osprey's feet are also specially adapted for gripping and carrying fish, as they are covered with short, sharp spines. Once airborne again, the bird manipulates the struggling fish so as to carry it head first, making it more streamlined in flight. The osprey also removes any water from its feathers as it flies by shaking itself, much like a dog.

Reports indicate that the statewide project is working. Since 1997, 209 osprey have been released at 10 sites. Thirty-seven osprey from wild Iowa nests have been hatched at 18 sites since 2003.

Reintroducing a species into a new environment is a process that requires volunteers, monetary contributions and community support. Can you help the Iowa Osprey soar to new heights?  Call Missy Smith, WCCB Naturalist, at 515-961-6169 for more information.