Last evening I saw an Osprey on the west lake near the power plant, and pulled my vehicle over to observe the bird. It flew back towards the lake and I saw that it had a bright orange fish in its talons, then suddenly I noticed a second Osprey in the air approaching the first bird. Together they flew to the top of one of the electrical towers in the middle of the lake, where a large pile of sticks was being assembled, apparently a new nest! They playfully sparred, went through the motions of "foreplay", exchanged the fish, and the female flew back close to the road for a meal.
Checking the pamphlet of County Nesting records that was mailed to MOU members a few years ago, there are no previous nesting records for Osprey in Dakota County. This is an easily visible nest, and it will be interesting to follow in the days and weeks ahead. If you're in the area, check it out. Enjoy! Drew Smith Eagan, Dakota County
