Dangers To Osprey
Like every other species, Ospreys are impacted both positively and negatively through our decisions and actions. The global recovery in Osprey populations when DDT was banned some decades ago is an example of a positive impact. Another is the provision of artificial nesting cradles so that Ospreys have a safe place to breed. While there have been wonderful encouraging decisions and actions that have helped Ospreys, there are still dangers to Osprey, both individually and collectively as a species. However, with greater awareness of these dangers to Osprey and positive action then they should have a secure future.
Entanglement in Fishing Tackle
Incorrectly discarded fishing line and tackle (e.g. lures) pose choking and entanglement dangers to Ospreys – both adults and chicks. It can interfere with parental care of chicks. Another significant threat are discarded fish with attached or ingested fishing line and tackle.
Electrocution
Ospreys can nest on cellular towers and utility poles. In particular, nests on utility poles with energised wires can pose a significant risk to the adult and juvenile Osprey. They can touch energised parts of the structure with their body, including when they excrete waste. As the young birds begin to fledge they are particularly vulnerable.
Loss of Habitat
Abundance and diversity of fish species is key to Osprey survival as their diet is almost exclusively fish. Destruction of seagrass beds and mangrove forests reduce fish stocks which, in turn, means less food for Ospreys.
When they are available, Ospreys prefer large dead trees and hoop pines for nesting as they tend to look for the highest point. Clearance of large trees consequently leads to less sites suitable for nesting.
Water Pollution – Rubbish
Osprey will grab objects afloat in the water including trash, nets, and fishing monofilament (stretchy fishing line). These can become hazardous to both adult and young Osprey due to entanglement and ingestion.
Water Pollution – Chemicals
Ospreys are at the top of the food chain. Chemical pollutants get passed up the food chain and can be found in the highest concentrations in those species at the top. This can lead to both illness and death in Ospreys. Chemical pollutants can include farm and industrial chemical runoff. There is also mounting concern about the transfer of pharmaceutical contaminants from water and sediment to fish, and then to fish eating species such as Ospreys.
Drones
Drones and model aeroplanes can be perceived as a threat by an Osprey. They have been known to attack a drone and be injured by moving blades. In cases where the parents are regularly engaged with drones, it could lead to the neglect of the young with adverse impacts on breeding success.
