[RP TownTalk] Shad Run reply

[Sue Collins]

Thanks for the information; even in spite of all the construction in the area there's still quite a bit of "wildlife watching" out there, if you're patient and know where to look.  




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From: "bruce.wernek at mindspring.com" <bruce.wernek at mindspring.com>
To: TownTalk at riverdale-park.org
Sent: Mon, April 12, 2010 11:30:53 AM
Subject: [RP TownTalk] Shad Run


All
 
I just wanted to let everyone know that the shad have just started their annual spring spawning in the NE branch of the Anacostia.  The area of interest is between Riverdale and Bladensburg roads.  It's still a little early, but the ospreys are making the rounds.  I've seen several of them in the last few days between Riverdale Rd and Decatur.  If you are lucky, you will see an osprey dive into the NE branch and catch a shad.  When the osprey pulls a shad out of the water, the shad will be broadside to the direction of flight.  As the ospey gains altitude, it will reposition the shad so it's head first inline with the direction of flight to reduce wind resistance.  Occasionally, an osprey will drop a shad during this maneuver and you will find them in the flood plain on the west side of the river.  The best viewing area is the bike path between Riverdale road and Decatur street.  If you want to get up close and personal, you have
 to sit along the river bank.  I suggest siting under a tree because the ospreys spook easily.
 
I've seen this many times over the years.  It would be a great experience for the kids if you can get them to sit still long enough.  Good viewing times are ~3-5pm daily.
 
Bruce  


      
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