Illinois DNR brings 10 ospreys to state from Langley Air Force Base

DNR announced today that biologists are wrapping up the second summer of a long-term project to re-establish the osprey as a nesting species in the state.  The osprey is listed as an Illinois state-endangered species, meaning it is at risk of disappearing as a breeding species. While the osprey often is seen during spring and fall migration, few remain in Illinois to nest.

Birds from Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Virginia are brought to Illinois to be released at Anderson Lake in Fulton County and Lake Shelbyville in Moultrie County.

“The young birds are loyal to the place where they grow up and often return to nest,” said DNR Biologist Patrick McDonald.  “Similar programs carried out in other states have been successful in boosting the number of nesting birds, and we hope to have the same result here in Illinois.”