The Peel Harvey Estuary continues to stand out as one of the most important breeding areas for ospreys in the southwest of Western Australia. Each year these striking raptors return to the estuary to rebuild nests, raise young and take advantage of the rich fishing grounds that support their survival. The 2025 breeding season offered new insights into their behaviour, challenges and successes, thanks to the ongoing work of the Peel Harvey Osprey Monitoring program and its dedicated volunteers.

Monitoring a Growing Population

In 2025 a total of 37 nests were identified across the estuary, making it one of the densest osprey breeding regions in the state. Monthly monitoring began in May as birds returned with fresh nesting material and continued through the breeding season from July to December. Of the 37 nests, 14 successfully fledged young, producing 25 juveniles. This represented an improvement on the previous year, with productivity averaging 1.78 fledglings per active nest.

Using Technology to Protect Wildlife

Drone technology played a key role in the 2025 season. A DJI Mavic 3 Pro with quiet blades and a powerful zoom lens allowed volunteers to observe nests from a safe distance without disturbing the birds. This approach made it possible to monitor feeding behaviour, chick development, egg success and nest occupancy at sites that would otherwise be difficult or unsafe to access. The drones also helped document events such as fallen nests, abandoned eggs and chick mortality.

Challenges Faced by Breeding Pairs

Despite the overall success, the season was not without setbacks. Four nests were lost when trees or large limbs fell, although two pairs immediately began rebuilding and one succeeded in raising young. Seven eggs failed to hatch and three chicks did not survive. One juvenile was rescued after being harassed by ravens and was successfully rehabilitated by Seabird Rescue. These incidents highlight the vulnerability of ospreys and the importance of ongoing monitoring and community support.

Feeding Behaviour and Skill Development

Observers noted that ospreys were catching unusually large fish during the season, including sizeable mullet and flounder. One resident living opposite a nest recorded a non-breeding pair bringing in three fish each per day. Newly fledged juveniles were also seen practising their diving and hunting skills on schools of blowfish in shallow water, a behaviour recorded at several sites across the region.

New Nests and Phantom Breeders

Volunteers observed that ospreys often begin building new nests in December and January, well before work begins on existing structures. It remains unclear whether these early builders are new breeding pairs or established pairs shifting territory. The season also revealed the presence of so-called phantom breeders. These birds displayed typical breeding behaviour such as nest sitting and food sharing but did not lay eggs. Ten pairs followed this pattern, while three other pairs began the season strongly before disappearing.

A Local Success Story

One of the most encouraging outcomes of the season was the return of Pink, a young osprey rescued, rehabilitated and banded in 2019. Pink was identified by his band in 2025 and was seen building a nest only 100 metres from his original natal site. His return and pairing with a new female demonstrate the value of rescue efforts and long term monitoring in supporting the species.

Community Effort for a Coastal Icon

The Peel Harvey Osprey Monitoring program continues to rely on volunteers, local observers and community groups who contribute sightings, photographs and nest updates. Their work helps protect one of the region’s most iconic coastal birds and ensures that future generations can witness the impressive sight of ospreys diving for fish across the estuary. Anyone interested in supporting the program can contact the team through their website or social media channels.