Drones disrupting osprey nest at Memorial Field

By Reader Staff

The city of Sandpoint has received reports recently of drones being flown at War Memorial Field and disturbing the resident osprey.

As a reminder to residents and visitors, the city underscored in a news release Sept. 2 that the field is home to two active osprey nests. Osprey are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is a federal offense to disturb active nests, and a person can be held liable if any bird of prey is injured or killed.

A still frame from the osprey camera. Image courtesy SandpointOnline.com

Federal law states: “No person shall use an aircraft to harass any wildlife.” According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and U.S. Forest Service, regarding the use of unmanned aircraft systems, drones should not be flown over or near wildlife as this can “create stress that may cause significant harm, and even death.” Intentional disturbance of animals during breeding, nesting, rearing of young, or other “critical life history functions” is not allowed unless approved as research or management. These agencies also note that UAS should be launched more than 328 feet from wildlife. 

To report any disturbance or harassment of the osprey at Memorial Field, call the non-emergency number for the Sandpoint Police Department at 208-265-1482.

The osprey currently living in one of the nests at the field can be viewed through the Osprey Cam online at ospreys.sandpointonline.com.