LIVE CAM: Ospreys return to nest at Radford University’s campus
RADFORD, Va. (WFXR) — Continuing one of its cherished traditions observed each year during this season, Radford University is celebrating the return of ospreys on its main campus. To mark the avian homecoming, the university set up a live camera to watch the bird’s nesting activities.
The college says the nest was first spotted in May 2019 by local ornithologist Clyde Kessler. Since then, it has remained active, serving as an inspiration for wildlife on the Highlander’s campus.
Ospreys are known for their piscivorous diet and its fossil records date back at least 11 million years ago. With the onset of Winter in higher latitudes, fish become unavailable leading osprey to migrate to regions including the Caribbean or South America. They then return for nesting in mid-March to early April.
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Their nests are often delicately balanced at the highest point of trees and other structures. The birds form lifelong pair bonds and exhibit loyalty to their nesting sites returning year after year to expand and refurbish their perches.
The nesting season starts with a pair fortifying their nests. This process consists of the laying of two to four eggs. The bird’s incubation period lasts up to 40 days. After, the fledging period takes place about two months after hatching, and witnesses the quick growth of young ospreys.
In anticipation of the Ospreys annual migration and nesting, several departments including the Departments of Biology and Geology partnered to install a camera to provide live footage of the Ospreys’ activities.
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