Utilities Look To Lure Ospreys From Cape Utility Poles

Utility officials are on the lookout for returning ospreys that nest in the cross arms of utility poles on Cape Cod.

Ospreys, also called sea hawks, return each spring from their southern winter homes. NStar says it's watching for potential problem.

The Cape Cod Times reports that local residents with a passion for the birds are watching the utility.

Kevin McCune, NStar's supervisor for licensing and permitting, says birds can sometimes be killed by electricity or fire.

NStar works with the state Division of Fisheries and Wildlife on its osprey program.

Possible solutions include removing a nest and hoping the birds choose a more natural roost and installing a device to prevent them from nesting.

Another solution is to put up a nearby platform to encourage the birds to move.