The Henry L. Ferguson Museum
Osprey Spotting Contest
Who will be the winner of the 2026 First Osprey Award?
The ospreys are coming! Keep your eyes on the sky—be the first person to spot the ospreys’ annual return to Fishers Island—and win!
Will they arrive by St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, as they typically do—or take the slow route after the February storm? It’s anyone’s guess whether the Blizzard of ’26 will impede the ospreys’ annual migration to northern climes and their return to Fishers Island—but one thing is certain: whether early, right on time, or fashionably late, ospreys never fail to announce that spring is here.
The first confirmed sighting wins the prize:
The winner will receive recognition as winner of the First Osprey Award, bragging rights, plus a gift certificate to spend in the Museum gift shop (where you’ll find great Museum swag, books, puzzles and much more).
The rules are simple:
- Take a clear photo of the osprey—spotting on the OspreyCam does not count!
- Make note of the island location, date and time
- Call Ken Edwards at (860) 912-3205 to report the sighting
- Send the photo and details to Pierce Rafferty at info@fergusonmuseum.com
The 2026 winner will be announced on the Museum’s Facebook & Instagram pages (@FergusonMuseum) and on FishersIsland.net.
By marking the first osprey sighting each year, the Museum continues its commitment to observing, documenting and celebrating the Island’s natural history. It’s a small but meaningful way we can all connect to the ecological rhythms of the land and sky.
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The Henry L. Ferguson Museum’s mission is to preserve our shared history and conserve our natural habitats by engaging, educating, and inspiring all Fishers Islanders. For the latest information on upcoming illustrated lectures and programs, please visit fergusonmuseum.org.
