Territorians have been asked to be on the lookout for one of the Territory Wildlife Park’s favourite attractions, which has been missing since Monday.

Ozzie the Osprey has not been seen at the Park all week and assistant curator Damien Stanioch said an extensive search for him in and around the Park has so far proved unsuccessful.

“Ozzie is a much loved bird that came to the Park as a rescue bird more than 15 years ago and we urge anyone who knows where he might be to contact us,” Mr Stanioch said.

“He was a juvenile that was taught by Park staff to dive into the arena pond at the Flight Deck and he’s become one of the star attractions through his amazing free flight displays on a daily basis for more than a decade.

“Ozzie has recently been paying his usual attention to the migratory kites, specifically the whistling kites which nest nearby every year – the kites are very protective of their nesting areas and Ozzie is extremely territorial of his own area.

“As soon as Ozzie was released from his enclosure on Monday, he flew his normal routine, dived for his fish and flew off over the trees but unfortunately, has not been seen since.

“Ozzie has no distinguishing marks or leg bands but will, however, call back with a high pitched screech when he is called by his trainers.

“He is known to catch his own fish so if he is okay we are confident he’s feeding well.

“Anyone who thinks they have spotted Ozzie is asked not to approach him but to call the Territory Wildlife Park on 89887200.

“Ospreys are raptorial birds with talons more curved and sharper than other diurnal raptors and require specific handling techniques for safety of the bird.”

For more information about the Territory Wildlife Park visit www.territorywildlifepark.com.au or like TWP on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TerritoryWildlifePark

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Media note – For further information / interviews please contact Damien Stanioch on 0477715471.