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Maurice River Recollections Project
Osprey Nest Anecdotes
Bauer II South
This nest rests close to the scene of one of our river's tragedies. Railbirding is a traditional activity on our river. Fall is the earliest hunting season. Railbirding was traditionally a sport of the “fancy gents” who would hire a guide or “pusher” to pole a skiff across the high waters of the marsh in search of sora rails. In general, a small flotilla of crafts would traverse the waters in unison in hopes of flushing a rail for a clear shot. It takes a fit and skillful fellow to propel the craft, and it takes a good deal of balance. On one occasion, a reputable leader had put together a team of pushers. Unfortunately, one young man had a grand mal seizure, fell from the craft, and his body was not recovered for many days. The family stood vigil for almost a week at my home in hopes of a speedy recovery of the body and some closure. It was simply tragic. After he was found and laid to rest the family returned months later to erect a cross in the meadow where he perished. It wasn?t far from the Bauer II nest and the male bird loved the new perch. He simply looked so regal, that to my eyes, he was standing a respectful watch, much like a soldier at the tomb of an unknown comrade. About two years after this man?s passing, I bumped into one of the family members and relayed the story of the osprey's use of the cross. Their eyes misted and a smile came across their face; in a gentle voice they said, “He would really have liked that. He loved wildlife.”
Crew prepares to put guard on Bauer II nest
Closest River Reach: Ferguson, Strabmuller Farm http://www.cumauriceriver.org/reaches/pg/narratives.cfm?sku=13
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Osprey Colony Project
Introduction Welcome to Citizens United's River Recollections Project. These stories are but a few of my memories associated to osprey nesting structures along the Maurice River and its tributaries. It is part of a larger project including an interactive map of the of river reach lore, live campfire recollection events, documentaries, presentations and archives held by the organization. I believe the greatest connection that people have to a river is the sharing of their bond to it through the telling of stories. These stories are accurate accounts from my perspective the truth, as I know it. The stories are designed to give you insight into some life history of the osprey but are primarily designed to give you a flavor for being an osprey volunteer. Over 150 volunteers have been involved in the construction of the osprey platforms. Sincerely,
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If you enjoy these stories or have a love of history, you may find visiting our interactive River Reach Map, which allows you to explore cultural aspects of the Maurice River's tidal reaches, simply click on buoys to begin your voyage.