Recently, I got to be part of some wonderful wildlife opportunities while on a “working” respite to Reeds Beach near Cape May, NJ
An osprey nest right across from where I was staying and erected by Fish and Wildlife almost three years ago finally got a family. While viewing the nest from a distance with my binocs, F&W showed up to band the babies! Did I want to accompany them to the nest and watch? YOU BET.
Though they had boots to muck through the marsh, I did not, but no matter. Was worth the slipping and sliding all the way out there!
Once there, with the mother swooping all around us, the babies were banded and I got to climb up the ladder and view the babes in their nest. It was very exciting.
Also, the turtles were nesting and I spent my days walking up and down our street helping the turtles back to the bay across a small (albeit) busy street. I found one hit by a car and although the great folks at Stockton College Dept of Natural Science came by to assist, the little female died. Since they could not be at our location all day, I volunteered to put their sign in front of our place.
There were turtles EVERYWHERE trying to “nest” on a bit of sand over a black top, being halted by bulkheads trying to get BACK to the bay…we are going back in September to help the hatchlings get over the road and back into the bay.
Seems no matter where animal lovers go and as much as we try to “get away”.. it just never happens. There is always an animal that needs our help and I was able to make some wildlife friends in Cape May at the same time.
Kathy McGuire, President, NJAFA