The Sad Loss of An Osprey by Dr. John Webster

Earlier today, 30 September 2020, I learnt of the loss of one of the few Osprey that visit our shores during the Southbound migration of North American birds. Charmaine “Midge” Hatcher of the Local RSPCA sent me the attached photos for identification of the bird species. The bird, identified as an Osprey, was found barely alive on the ground in the Sunset Crest area and transported to the RSPCA. According to Charmaine, It appeared to have neck damage and nerve damage generalized. Unfortunately They had to put it to sleep on arrival as it was very distressed. It is believed that the Osprey was struck by lightning during one of the numerous thunderstorms that have been occurring along the West coast in the last 48 hours. The carcass was Xrayed in an effort to establish the cause of death but no broken bones or injury to internal body was found. In fact the bird actually was found to be in good health and eating properly, hence the belief that the bird had been the victim of a lightning strike.

Thanks to

Charmaine Hatcher

(Barbados RSPCA) for providing the information and photos.

Dr. John Webster is one of the leading Birders and Bird Photographers on the island of Barbados.  He is a member of Birds Caribbean and a guide with Barbados Birding & Photography Tours.  He can be contacted at barbadosbirds@gmail.com