Fort Myers photographer helps save tangled baby osprey

Photographer's quick action prevents likely suffocation of chick in monofilament line

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:56am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph showing the blurred outline of a baby osprey chick entangled in monofilament line, surrounded by soft, warm pools of light and color, conveying the fragility and vulnerability of local wildlife.A photographer's quick action saved a baby osprey from a dangerous tangle of fishing line, highlighting the ongoing need for wildlife conservation efforts in the Fort Myers area.Fort Myers Today

A quick-thinking Fort Myers photographer helped save a baby osprey tangled in monofilament at a nest by Pink Shell Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach. Local rescuer Rob Howell used a lift to remove the line, preventing likely suffocation, and the nest is now under state investigation after complaints about nearby helicopter tours.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of protecting local wildlife, especially endangered species like ospreys, from human-caused threats like discarded fishing line and development encroaching on natural habitats. The photographer's actions likely saved the chick's life and brought attention to the need for greater awareness and conservation efforts.

The details

According to reports, the photographer spotted the baby osprey tangled in monofilament line at a nest near the Pink Shell Beach Resort on Fort Myers Beach. Local rescuer Rob Howell was called in and used a lift to carefully remove the line, preventing the chick from likely suffocating. The nest is now under investigation by state officials after complaints were made about nearby helicopter tours potentially disturbing the birds.

  • The incident occurred at a nest on Fort Myers Beach.
  • The photographer spotted the tangled chick and alerted local rescuers.

The players

Rob Howell

A local rescuer who used a lift to remove the monofilament line and save the baby osprey.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The state is investigating the nest after complaints about nearby helicopter tours that may have disturbed the birds.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of protecting local wildlife, especially endangered species like ospreys, from human-caused threats like discarded fishing line and development encroaching on natural habitats. The photographer's actions likely saved the chick's life and brought attention to the need for greater awareness and conservation efforts.