Fish Creek Ospreys Get Good Reception

An osprey family has returned to their home on the Cellcom cell tower across from Gibraltar school in Fish Creek. The birds return to the nest annually on a platform of the 150-foot tower, where they enjoy a stellar view of Gibraltar softball games in the spring.

“The ospreys have been returning to the Cellcom tower for about six years now,” said Jim Lueck, cell site manager at Cellcom. “This year we consulted a wildlife biologist from the Department of Natural Resources to find out the best way to preserve the osprey’s home.”

Aaron Buchholz, DNR wildlife manager for the Northeast Region, highly recommended leaving the birds nest untouched to increase the likelihood of the osprey’s return in subsequent years. With its firm commitment to the environment, Cellcom will follow the DNR’s advice.

“We will work around the nest as tower updates are needed,” said Bob Sobieck, director of engineering at Cellcom. “We plan to do some work on it this year after the baby ospreys leave the nest.”

Buchholz noted that the ospreys would likely take flight in early to mid-August.

“The ospreys on our tower have become a familiar site to residents and visitors,” said Lueck. “We’re happy we are able to preserve their home and continue to allow everyone to enjoy their presence.”