I have lived on Scugog Island my entire life and in my current home on Island Road for the past eight years. This is the first spring I have ever seen a pair of osprey build a nest in this area. Specifically, on a hydro pole just down the road from our home.

Our children found these birds very exciting to watch, as they stood at the end of the driveway waiting for the bus. So, as caring parents, we decided to be proactive in helping nature. We have noticed in other townships there are platforms built for the specific purpose of helping these birds build their nests safely.

Two weeks ago, I called the local hydro company and inquired as to what procedures and protocols were in place to craft a platform for these birds. I was informed that my request would go onto the "jobs list" but it would not be placed within the top five. That, in itself, was fine.

Fast forward about 10 days. As we watched a pair of hydro boom trucks drive past our home, we went outside only to notice the nest that had been started was completely knocked down. In its place were two insulators with a cross-bar attached. This will prohibit this pair of gorgeous birds, who mate for life, from building their nest.

I'm disappointed in the hyrdo company from deterring the birds. Had they explained their decision (too much traffic, inadequate pole strength, etc.) we would have understood.

Tanya Huizenga

Scugog Island