Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

Accabonac Harbor, Napeague

Fish-hawk that nests on platforms, poles and duck blinds near water. Badly hit by pesticides in the mid-20th century, ospreys have made a good comeback since DDT was banned in 1972.

Best time of day

Morning and dusk

How to see

Walk trails with binoculars; platforms visible from roadsides.

Operator

Self-guided

Cost

Free

Age

All ages

Accessibility

Some boardwalks accessible

Responsible viewing

Keep well back from nest platforms; do not approach or linger beneath them.

Weather / sea state

Any fair weather.