LIVE CAM: Radford University welcomes back ospreys to campus nest
Radford, VA (04/04/2024) — Radford University is excited to announce the return of the ospreys to our main campus, continuing a cherished tradition observed each year during this season. This avian homecoming, marked by the ospreys' arrival in early March, underscores the university's commitment to wildlife conservation and ecological stewardship.
View the Radford Raptor Cam here.
Local ornithologist Clyde Kessler first spotted the osprey nest in May 2019, initiating an ongoing partnership between the university and the avian residents. Since then, the nest has remained active, serving as a beacon of wildlife vitality on our campus. In anticipation of their annual migration and nesting, a collaborative effort involving the Departments of Biology and Geology, University Advancement, Facilities Management, Information Technology Services, Marketing and Communication, and with the support of CMG Leasing, installed a camera to provide live footage of the ospreys' activities.
Ospreys are magnificent birds of prey renowned for their piscivorous diet, predominantly feasting on fish. With the onset of winter in higher latitudes rendering fish scarce, ospreys embark on migration journeys to regions such as the Caribbean or South America. Despite their nomadic habits, ospreys form enduring pair bonds and exhibit remarkable fidelity to their nesting sites, returning year after year to expand and refurbish their nests.
The nesting season commences with the pair fortifying their nest, a process that culminates in the laying of two to four eggs by the female. Incubation, primarily the female's responsibility, lasts approximately 40 days, with the male assisting in the process. The fledgling period, approximately 2 months post-hatching, witnesses the rapid growth of young ospreys, a spectacle that the Highlander community can observe via the live video feed.
The resurgence of osprey populations follows decades of decline attributed to the widespread use of pesticides such as DDT. Radford University is proud to support the conservation efforts that have contributed to this recovery, aligning with our River Campus initiative. Artificial nest platforms, instrumental in bolstering osprey populations, exemplify our commitment to environmental stewardship.
As we celebrate the return of the ospreys, we remind the Radford community of the importance of respecting these magnificent creatures' rights to nest undisturbed. Harassment of nesting ospreys contravenes the Federal Migratory Bird Act, and any disruption of their habitat is strictly prohibited. We encourage members of the community to observe these birds through the video feed provided, fostering an appreciation for their natural habitat.
Also, we invite you to explore our two additional live camera feeds overlooking Heth Lawn and Moffett Lawn, offering glimpses into the vibrant campus life at Radford University.
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