Funding Needed to Help East Lake's Osprey

If you live in East Lake, you're probably used to seeing the many osprey that live in the area. Numerous platforms have been built in the community, so these federally protected birds can nest safely.

East Lake resident Barb Walker is a volunteer for the Clearwater Audubon Society who has put up many of the platforms. She says a pair of osprey has built a nest in a very dangerous location on a light pole in front of the Walgreens on Sandy Point Road, which is directly across from Tarpon Woods Boulevard.

"They had stopped building, then the male came back with a mate," said Walker. 

"The fear for the pair is a powerline collision and getting hit by cars," she added.

Walker, who has a Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) permit to install platforms, says she would like to put in a platform or deterrents to keep the Osprey away from this dangerous location.

"I have a long list of platforms and it might have to wait in line," she said.

Walker says the Osprey platforms are funded solely by grant money and funding is always needed.

If you would like to help the ospreys, you can send a check (no cash) to-

• Clearwater Audubon Society, attn: Barb Walker, 3019 Bradford Circle, Palm Harbor, FL, 34685
• Please specify on the check that you would like the money to be used for Osprey nests.

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