What is an osprey? Observe the majestic creatures with the DWR

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is inviting the public to view ospreys in their natural habitat at Flaming Gorge Reservoir on July 12. 

Held next to the Flaming Gorge Dam Visitor Center’s parking lot, the event will begin at 9 a.m. DWR and Ashley National Forest Service biologists will be present to answer questions and share information. 

Some spotting scopes will be available to use. However, bringing your own binoculars is encouraged. In addition, the DWR recommended packing a lunch, sufficient drinking water, sunscreen and bug spray. 

Kayaking and paddle boarding will also be allowed during the event, allowing guests to reach the islands where osprey nest. However, the DWR asked that watercraft owners follow invasive species requirements before, during and after the event. 

“The birds are super active this time of year, especially during the morning hours,” DWR Northeastern Region Conservation Outreach Manager Tonya Kieffer-Selby said. “The event is great for the whole family. In addition to ospreys, visitors may see other birds of prey, including golden eagles, turkey vultures and American kestrels, which are frequently spotted at this annual event.”

Although the event is free, the DWR is asking participants to register ahead of time. 

Osprey drawn to Flaming Gorge by fish

The osprey is the only North American hawk species that relies almost solely on fish. According to the DWR, their preferred food source is what draws them to the area.

“The birds at Flaming Gorge are very active, and they can catch a fish one out of every four times they dive,” Kieffer-Selby said. 

Flaming Gorge is home to one of the largest osprey populations in the interior western U.S. The birds return yearly to breed and raise their chicks. 

Northwest Rafting Co said that young ospreys typically return to the areas they were born for the first two or three years of their lives. Once they reach maturity, they find a mate they will remain with for the rest of their lives. 

During their 10-15 year lifetimes, they fly more than 160,000 miles. The migratory birds can fly as many as 250 miles a day, however, they often only fly 170.

Although they mostly prefer fish, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game said they sometimes also eat small mammals, birds, reptiles or amphibians. 

Furthermore, The Peregrine Fund said the birds have a distinct hunting style. They often fly slowly, remaining close to the water’s surface where they can see fish moving below. 

“If you are lucky, you might get to see an osprey dive feet first into the water to capture a fish in its powerful talons,” Kieffer-Selby said. 

After catching a fish, they often fly to a higher point to feast. 

Identifying osprey

Ospreys can often be seen near water, such as reservoirs, ponds and rivers. Identifying them is fairly easy, their heads are white and a brown stripe runs between their bright yellow eyes. 

The DWR said pairs “build on the same nest year after year.” Their nests are large and it’s “relatively common” to come across one that measures 10 feet across. 

They may nest on the ground, however, they often prefer to build their home in higher places, such as in trees or atop cliffs. 

Additionally, the DWR explained they have a distinct call — a high-pitched whistle may be heard throughout the area near the Green River. 

“After capturing a fish, an osprey will carry it back to its perch or nest and share it with its mate and young. You’ll also hear the ospreys’ shrieking calls as they fly around the area,” Kieffer-Selby said. 

Interested in bird watching? Read more: Looking for Utah birdwatching spots? The DWR provided a list of reccomendations