> We were wondering if these nests aren't protected under some type of
> federal law?


It's illegal to destroy nest of Protected Wildlife under both federal and
state law. However, permits are often granted where nests are built in
places where they really get in the way of legitimate enterprises. I
gave permission for removal of an osprey nest on an AirTouch tower near
Hwy 8 at Mud Bay last winter, provided it was done before April 1 when the
birds might return. The company wanted to raise the height of the tower.
The nest was removed and the tower raised. I noticed just two days ago
that the birds have returned and built a new nest.

I have high hopes that companies building these Cellular towers will
find a way to construct them so that osprey can nest on them without
interfering with the necessary functions of the towers. They are perfect
for osprey, when in the right location, and people really like to see the
birds nesting.

All of us who like osprey should let these companies know how much we
appreciate tolerance and respect for the birds.

Kelly McAllister