Building, repairing and appreciating osprey nests within the Refuge is one of the rewarding activities we focus on. Often this occurs during the winter months while the birds are down south. This requires volunteers to work under less than idea weather conditions — howling cold windy days that result in cold fingers and noses. Still, with each successful repair, we leave with a warm heart knowing the birds will return soon to a secure nest site that will produce many new ospreys for many years ahead!
Osprey Nest at Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (March 2020)
We are thrilled to offer a 24×7 live stream of an active pair of Osprey – and their offspring – at their nest at Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. This opportunity for a bird’s eye view of a beloved bird’s habitat is the result of a collaboration between the Friends of Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge, the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and Comcast Business. View the live stream, FAQs about ospreys and video highlights…!
Osprey on Cape Cod (February 2021)
With the changing of the seasons from winter to spring comes the return of migratory birds all across the northeast. One of the most distinct birds to mark the coming of springtime is the osprey; with their stark brown and white appearances and intense yellow eyes, these large raptors are difficult to miss. Read the full article in our Winter 2021 newsletter…
Friends Repair Osprey Nest Platform (January 2022)
A volunteer team from the Friends of the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge recently responded to shore-up a leaning osprey nest platform. The nest site is in the marsh overlooking the Great River/Jehu Pond estuary in Mashpee. It was reported by a nearby homeowner, and the Friends quickly assembled a team to tackle the repair. Read more…
Friends Build New Osprey Nest Platform (March 2021)
In a true joint effort, the Friends of the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge (FMNWR) assisted partner organization Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (WBNERR) to build and install a new osprey nest platform in the marsh behind Amy Brown Road in Mashpee. WBNERR Stewardship Coordinator, James Rassman, led the effort, assisted by FMNWR Directors MaryKay Fox and Glenn Davis, volunteer Neil Barkin, and a curious neighbor who lent the team a forgotten, but crucial wrench. Read more…
