Virginia Osprey Foundation
Dec 31, 2025
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OSPREYCAM
VIRGINIA OSPREY FOUNDATION
Slideshow photos courtesy of Bob Lennox
Save the Date for Virginia Osprey Festival, April 11, 2026
Mission Statement
The Virginia Osprey Foundation is dedicated to the protection of Osprey and their habitats in Virginia. Through science, education, advocacy and community engagement, our mission is to foster a sustainable environment where Osprey thrive.
The Virginia Osprey Festival is one of the largest festivals of its kind celebrating the osprey’s annual return to Colonial Beach, birdwatching and the area's abundant natural resources.
Latest News from The Virginia Osprey Foundation!
CLICK HERE to view past events in the community!
FESTIVAL TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Mark your calendars for a beloved Northern Neck tradition! The 2026 Virginia Osprey Festival is soaring back to Colonial Beach on April 11, 2026, celebrating the return of the ospreys and the vibrant coastal community that gathers to welcome them home.
This family-friendly festival is packed with nature, education, local flavor, and fun for all ages—set against the beautiful backdrop of the Potomac River. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, this is a spring event you won’t want to miss.
Early Bird Tickets
***All events on Town Hill are FREE***
This includes all exhibits and activities
Tickets Are Required For:
All Presentations at the Fisheries Building
Personal Golf Cart Nest Tours
Single- $10.00
Full Nest- $15 (family ticket)
Children 12 and under are FREE and must be accompanied by an adult.
Ticket prices increase by $5.00 on day of festival so get them now!
Osprey population 'near complete collapse' on Virginia's Eastern Shore, scientists report
by Eliza Noe, 2025 The Virginian-Pilot. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
read here
Osprey population along the seaside of the Delmarva Peninsula has collapsed
The Center for Conservation Biology
(Williamsburg, VA) — The Center for Conservation Biology has completed an aerial survey of ospreys nesting along the seaside of the Virginia portion of the Delmarva Peninsula. The survey recorded nine pairs of ospreys between Fisherman Island and the Chincoteague Causeway.
read here
CCB’s latest osprey study continues decades of work on behalf of the species
The W&M study indicates food scarcity as a likely driver of brood failure in high salinity areas of the Chesapeake Bay. Excellent article explaining why the dramatic decline of Osprey populations in 2024 was due to hunger - not enough fish to sustain our beloved fish hawks.
read here
We Need Your Support!
Support the mission of the Virginia Osprey Foundation by making a financial contribution today. Your support helps protect osprey habitats, fund conservation education, and preserve Virginia’s waterways for future generations. Every donation—large or small—makes a meaningful impact in keeping these magnificent birds thriving.
The Virginia Osprey Festival in Colonial Beach would like to express its appreciation to the Potomac River Fisheries Commission and its Executive Director, Martin Gary, for their support and use of its facilities to the festival over the years. Please visit their website and become familiar with this valuable organization located within the Town of Colonial Beach.
From Joanie Millward, President of the Virginia Osprey Foundation. Please consider becoming a member of The International Osprey Foundation. They are an amazing organization and have been an amazing partner.
Thank You to Our 2025 Festival Sponsors!
Click Here to Learn More About Our Sponsors
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