The Call of the Osprey

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk ME, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 13, 2015

Review

Scientists in the Field series

Hinshaw and Munoz introduce us to scientists studying the effects of pollution from the mining industry on osprey, a top tier predator. Basic information on osprey is provided, but the focus here is on the concerns for their long-term health. Background information on DDT and heavy metals from the mining industry, and the concentration of pollutants up the food chain give insight into the circumstances behind the project. Numerous locations around the Upper Clark Fork River Superfund site outside Missoula MT are being monitored. Samples of blood and feathers reveal the cumulative effects of the concentration of pollutants. A few chicks have been fitted with transmitters so that scientists can follow where they go when the chicks leave the nest. The scientists are shown interacting with school children, university interns and senior citizens, adding human interest to the nature of their work.

Webcams trained into osprey nests provide spectacular photography of the birds, their chicks and the scientists handling them, and will pull in browsers. A map, table of contents, index, suggested book and internet resources, author note and glossary will appeal to teachers. Recommended for all libraries.

Overall Book Score: good