Calgary, Alta. – Osprey have returned to Calgary on their annual migration to raise their young. For 19 years, the birds of prey have nested on a platform constructed by the zoo atop a specially placed ENMAX pole. Located on the island's east end in a non-public area, the platform is visible from the Bow River bridge crossing between the Canadian Wilds and Destination Africa exhibits. But for a
bird's eye view of their nesting activities, the public can watch the daily action via webcam at
enmax.com/osprey."Our osprey webcam has an incredibly high number of followers that have increased year over year," said Doris Kaufmann Woodcock, ENMAX spokesperson. "Five years ago there were about 15,000 unique visitors to the webpage and at the close of last year that number jumped to almost 28,000."
Since 2008, the Calgary Zoo and ENMAX have offered a glimpse into the action via live webcam. Three eggs have been laid this year and are expected to hatch in mid-June. The live streaming camera is available to the public until the seasonal departure of the birds which typically occurs in September.
"Although osprey populations are still recovering from historic declines caused by the extensive use of DDT, a pesticide banned almost 45 years ago, they are considered sensitive in Alberta. Osprey continue to be vulnerable to disturbances of their nest sites which is why the ENMAX nest platform at the Calgary Zoo is so important," says Lea Randall, Conservation Research Population Ecologist, Calgary Zoo. "The nest platform provides a protected place for the osprey to rear their young and the webcam offers a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with wildlife without disturbing it."
Osprey often build nests on top of power poles. This poses a serious danger to the birds that can also lead to power outages. ENMAX has erected
14 nesting platforms throughout the city in areas that are located close to the original nest but away from power lines. Through the
ENMAX Avian Management program, sites are continuously identified and assessed for suitability and need.
CONTEST
To celebrate the upcoming eggs hatching, we are giving away 5 Calgary Zoo Family Fun Packs. To enter, post your guess of the hatch date along with @ENMAX and #OspreyYYC on Twitter and/or Facebook. Details and contest rules are available on enmax.com/osprey
About ENMAX:
ENMAX, through its subsidiaries, makes, moves and sells electricity to residential, small business and large commercial customers and is headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, with offices in Edmonton. ENMAX Power Corporation owns and operates transmission and distribution infrastructure in Calgary and ENMAX Energy Corporation owns diverse electricity generation facilities throughout the province. Since 2007, ENMAX has been named one of Alberta's Top Employers. ENMAX Energy is currently the retailer of choice for both The City of Calgary and The City of Edmonton.