How to Help East Haddam Swing Bridge Ospreys

The state Department of Transportation is doing maintenance to the East Haddam Swing Bridge and also installing a new platform for the local osprey family.

“This will make nesting season safer for motorists and osprey,” RiverQuest said via Facebook recently.

The platform is a community-funded project and anyone interested in donating may do so via the GoFundMe project, created by Melissa Ziobron.

As of Thursday, Feb. 5, people donated $850 toward its $2,500 goal.

“Our community has watched for years as the ’Swingbridge Ospreys’ make their home on the very top of the East Haddam Swingbridge, every March,” the GoFundMe page stated. “After being approached by community members, the RiverQuest and other bird enthusiasts — like myself — I approached CT DOT. They have agreed to install a permanent platform for the ospreys to build their nest!”

RiverQuest agreed to cover a large portion of the costs, in addition to what is raised. Click here to visit the GoFundMe project page for the osprey platform.

For information on birding cruises and other events, visit the Connecticut River Expeditions page.

Photos: RiverQuest; Melissa Ziobron