Ospreys Return to Hilton Head Island and Lowcountry

 The Osprey, also called the Seahawk is thought to be a sign of spring and rebith in the Lowcountry. Thirty to forty years ago Ospreys faced possible extinction because the species could not produce enough young to maintain the population. due in large part to the use of powerful pesticides like DDT. Since its ban in the early 1970's the Ospreys have made a remarkable recovery with the help also of other restoration stratgies like artificial nest construction and the preservation of their  natural habitat. A recent article by David Lauderdale, Island Packet, tells of Osprey sightings in the Hilton Head Island area. From the bridge to Hilton Head Island , the Bridge Osprey have been observed building their nest on the electric tower in Mackays Creek. On Matthews Drive there is a nest that shows activity on the Palmetto Electric communications tower, near the airport.  In Palmetto Dunes Plantation, a nesting platform was built in January to replace a removed diseased pine that had a former nest and hopes of the former Osprey couples return are strong. Soon we should be able to witness adult Osprey diving for fish to feed their new offspring, as the cycle of rebirth and renewal continues in the healthy environment of the Lowcountry.