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The osprey is one of the most widely distributed birds in the world. It is found on every continent except Antarctica; however, the population declined rapidly between 1950 and 1980. The causes were DDT use, loss of breeding habitat and poaching. The banning of DDT and initiation of state conservation programs have allowed the osprey to make a comeback throughout the United States. In Indiana, the osprey is on the state endangered species list.
From 1930 to 1975, osprey nesting was only noted in four counties in Indiana: Morgan, Parke, Porter and Posey. At the beginning of the 21st century, osprey populations in the Midwest had been growing slowly but nests were widely scattered. Reintroductions enhanced local and regional populations. From 2003 to 2006, Wildlife Diversity staff obtained 96 young ospreys from nests in coastal areas of Virginia and raised and released them at four locations in Indiana: Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area, Minnehaha Fish & Wildlife Area, Tri-County Fish & Wildlife Area, and Patoka Lake. Each site received eight birds in June of three consecutive years. Birds were held for one to five weeks and released from mid-June to mid-July. Locally obtained fish (primarily gizzard shad, carp, white sucker and yellow perch) were provided at release sites as late as early September. As a result of this effort and the erection of nesting platforms in a partnership between the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and private groups and individuals, Indiana’s osprey population has shown steady growth.
Osprey Nesting in Indiana
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