Last updated: August 12, 2024
Thing to Do
Osprey
NPS photo.
Pandion haliaetus
A large bird with a slim body, the osprey has long, narrow wings that have a sharp bend in flight resembling the letter “M.” Ospreys have dark-brown feathers on their back and are white underneath. They also have a notable dark mark at the “wrist” of their wing. An osprey’s call is high-pitched with a series of short, slightly wavering screeches that sound like “too-too-too-tee-tee-tee-tee-too-too.”
A large bird with a slim body, the osprey has long, narrow wings that have a sharp bend in flight resembling the letter “M.” Ospreys have dark-brown feathers on their back and are white underneath. They also have a notable dark mark at the “wrist” of their wing. An osprey’s call is high-pitched with a series of short, slightly wavering screeches that sound like “too-too-too-tee-tee-tee-tee-too-too.”
Details
Activity
Birdwatching
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Near water
Ospreys are primarily near water sources with healthy fish populations. Their nests are distinct piles of bulky sticks, usually on top of a dead or broken-topped tree or other pole-like structures. On occasion, a pair is known to nest near the St. Mary Visitor Center.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
In addition to driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road and other park roads, the Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, and the Trail of the Cedars are three of Glacier’s most accessible areas.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.