Cruise for ospreys on July 11

Tour scheduled for Saturday, July 11

The annual osprey cruise, sponsored by the Natural Resource Committee of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce, is set for 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 11.

The community is invited to participate in this one-of-a-kind event on Lake Coeur d’Alene. The tour goes into Cougar Bay on the two-story cruise boat Mish-n-Nock, courtesy of Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises and Captain Carl Fus.

Experts on ospreys and other area wildlife will provide information and answer questions to help attendees learn more about these iconic North Idaho birds.

Mounted bird displays and other exhibits are part of the program. Wildlife and lake habitat specialists from the Idaho DEQ and the Coeur d’Alene Tribe also participate.

Osprey are a type of fish hawk native to local lakes that return in spring every year, often to the same nests with the same mate.

“This may be one of the only places in the world where viewing osprey on their nests from close up on the deck of a lake cruise boat happens for a public cruise,” a press release said. “It is always a treat and often other birds are seen, including cormorants, varieties of ducks, and grebes. Bald eagles often can be spotted from the boat on their nest overlooking the protected bay.”

Register through the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce at 664-3194. Boarding begins at 8:30 a.m. at the east side of the Boardwalk Marina by Tubbs Hill and McEuen Park.

“The cruise is limited to make the experience safe and enjoyable for everyone and good viewing for all, so reservations are essential,” the release said. “Don’t forget your camera, sunscreen, binoculars, sunglasses, and a sun hat.”

The Coeur d’Alene Lake cruises have been operating regularly this spring and summer with all the governor’s and the health district precautions being followed.

The cruise costs $20 per adult. Children 12 and younger accompanied by a paying adult are free. Family rates are $45 for two adults and three children up to 18 years of age. Seniors and students are $15.

To register, call 208-664-8134