
The spectacular photographer, children’s book author, and LBI resident “Dr. Dad” recently commented to me that the Osprey should’ve been the National Bird. He has a good point. Noble, hard working, self-reliant… the Osprey embodies everything we like to think of ourselves as being. To some, Bald Eagles can be a little brutish and scavenger-y.




Hmmm. Not conclusive. Either way, we probably should not pit Osprey against Bald Eagles, as they both suffered the same near-extinction event at the hands of humanz and our nasty, nasty DDT. They are both important “indicator” species. They saved us from DDT and they continue to be important barometers of the health of NJ, and Barnegat Bay in particular. Even if you hate these amazing animals, pure self interest should put you on the side of protecting them and keeping their populations healthy. If our Bay ever becomes severely toxic, these animals will die in large numbers before you get sick. They very well might save our lives one day.
Thanks to the good folks at the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ, both animals have made phenomenal comebacks after years of tough work, dedication, and lots of cuddling of baby Osprey & Eagles. Please support the CWFNJ with some dollar bills and help ensure we have Osprey & Eagles attacking each other on LBI for years to come.