New nest found for local ospreys

An osprey bird nest found on a telegraph pole near along the new Barrie GO Transit extension near Innisfil has been successfully relocated.

The move comes in accordance with proper conservation and relocation protocol set out by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

"Ospreys are known to build nests on hydro and telephone poles like the one at our location," said Mark Armstrong, environmental specialist with the GO Transit Rail Improvement Program.

"But because of its proximity to the rail line and nearby county road, the nest location was not ideal and reintroducing the commuter rail service would further disturb the habitat."

The nest was first discovered by GO Transit, which was in the area doing expansion work on the Barrie GO Transit line.

The Ministry of Natural Resources was contacted and it was determined that the nest would have to be moved, to ease the disruption expected from the commuter rail service.

"GO Transit is pleased to have the opportunity to work together with the (MNR) and the local Simcoe County Banding Group to help relocate the osprey nest to a more suitable location," said Greg Ashbee, GO TRIP's rail expansion program manager. "When building, expanding or restoring public transit lines, signals or stations, GO Transit makes every effort to preserve the surrounding habitat or vegetation."

The banding group, which was recruited by GO Transit to construct a new nest, found a location close to the old bird habitat and away from both the Barrie extension, which opened in December, and the road, to minimize disturbance to the nest.

"There has been excellent cooperation between GO Transit, the MNR and the banding group volunteers to ensure that the nest relocation is done in the best interest of the local osprey population." said Gregory Cull, senior fish and wildlife specialist for the MNR.

The osprey tolerates a wide variety of habitats, nesting in any location which is near a body of water and provides an adequate food supply. The osprey's transition to the new location is expected to happen over the next few months.