Project OspreyTrack

Satellite tracking the migrations of Ospreys from New Hampshire to South America.

Osprey in nest In 2011, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center launched a new research and education project focusing on tracking the international migrations of Ospreys nesting in New Hampshire. Using state-of-the-art solar-powered satellite transmitters - that weigh 30 grams/ 1 ounce - attached to the backs of juvenile and adult Ospreys, we use interactive web-based technology to allow near real-time tracking of multiple Ospreys as they migrate from their nests in New Hampshire to South America and back. Each backpack includes a tiny GPS unit that records hourly locations, altitude, speed, and direction.

Project leader and Science Center Executive Director Iain MacLeod has been studying Ospreys for more than 30 years, first in his native home, Scotland and now in New Hampshire. Iain has been monitoring the growing breeding Osprey population in the NH Lakes Region since 1997 (click here to see a recent paper authored by Iain on his studies). Over the next three years, we hope to install transmitters on 15 Ospreys.

A key project partner is Dr. Richard O. (Rob) Bierregaard, a Distinguished Visiting Research Professor at the Department of Biology at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte, NC. Bierregaard has been studying Ospreys on Martha’s Vineyard since 1969, and in 2000 began deploying lightweight satellite backpacks to track juveniles as they made their first migrations. After 10 years, and more than 40 birds tagged, his project is providing much-needed data revealing migrational differences among Ospreys and helping pin down where threats to Ospreys lie.

Another key partner is Chris Martin of New Hampshire Audubon. Chris coordinates statewide monitoring and conservation of Ospreys and other raptors under contract with the NH Fish and Game Department’s Nongame Program.

Project funded by Eversource Energy, the Jane B. Cook 1983 Charitable Trust, 3M, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center's Innovative Project Fund, and Meredith Bay Colony Club.

3M awarded a $33,264 3M Eco Grant to enhance Project OspreyTrack in October 2014. With additional matching funds from Eversource Energy and the Jane B. Cook 1983 Charitable Trust, the grant will allow the Science Center to create an eastern flyway network through participating nature centers and schools in 15 states from New Hampshire to Florida through which migrating Ospreys pass on their way from northern New England to South America. Curriculum materials will be created and disseminated and students will communicate and share their experience with Ospreys in their state as well as network with schools and nature institutions in Europe, Africa, and South America.

danielle torres, 08/27/24
So much to see and learn. Great adventure for all ages. Easy walking and multiple stops areas to rest. Nice picnic pavilion to byo lunch.
Betsy Budesky, 09/22/24
We hosted another couple from out of state 11am Friday 9/20/24. None of us had experienced this 90 minute pontoon boat ride showcasing Squam Lake. It was truly wonderful. We would highly recommend it. We were warmly welcomed by staff and we were made to feel very comfortable all throughout. Pierce narrated the tour. We hung on to his every word. He's a warm, attentive steward. This is a must do activity for everyone who lives here and for those visiting. History, nature. Terrific.
Conor Ludlow, 09/18/24
We spent the day at Squam Center with our 9 month old baby and it was fantastic. There is so much to do even for us adults. We learned so much in a fun and interactive way. Highly recommend! The staff are friendly and so knowledgeable. We had a great day!
Cailin Nelson, 08/03/18
Very nice place, clean and informative. Different from other places - lots for kids to learn hands on. I was a little apprehensive due to the cost and not many animals but felt like it was worth every penny. I would recommend packing a lunch and taking advantage of the trails - make a full day out of it.
Ghost 77, 03/03/22
Absolutely amazing place to visit, especially for children. I visit most often during the summer in the late morning to early afternoon. There is little to no wait time for entry. Great to get some outside time and lots of walking, with fun and educational exhibits for the kids. Growing up, we'd go here on field trips fairly often between 1st and 5th grade, and everyone always thought it was a lot of fun.