After researching Osprey migration this morning, I now find that Ospreys may be seen in New York State from April through September, but nevertheless I was surprised to see one in Inwood this morning on April 1. I was alerted to its presence by a birding friend who let me know that it wasn’t a joke.
The Osprey was perched on one of the light towers overlooking the football stadium for Columbia University, one of its favorite spots based on last year’s activity. I first saw it from afar when an American Crow looked perturbed by its presence and likely wanted its fresh catch. The skies were overcast, with rain in the forecast. Temperatures were mild.
I also spent enough time researching the motivations for Osprey migration to understand why it may be here so soon. Typically, Ospreys will wait to move north to their breeding grounds once fish are plentiful. Abundant rains, a healthy Hudson River ecosystem, and warmer temperatures may provide an adequate fish supply for these fish hawks.
Ospreys frequent the coastline areas of New York City such as the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, but Inwood has seen a gradual increase in Ospreys. The Salt Marsh is connected to the Hudson River tidal estuary, where salt water from the ocean mixes with fresh water from the north. A few years ago, I would see Ospreys typically in September, the start of their migration south to winter grounds in South America. Last year, more than one showed up around Memorial Day in late May and commanded the airspace over the neighborhood all summer long. They caught plenty of fish.
Well, here it is April 1, 2024, and an Osprey has arrived. No joke.
Cover: Osprey. Stadium light tower at Columbia University’s Wien Stadium, Baker Athletic Complex. Inwood neighborhood, Northern Manhattan, NYC. April 1, 2024. 7:41 a.m.
April 2024 Sightings page
The April 2024 Sightings page is now published. Visit for new pictures all month.
Birds of Inwood 