Osprey

Description:

Ospreys are large birds and are perfectly equipped for fishing. They hover over a water area watching for fish. When fish are spotted, the Osprey dives deeply into the water with massive talons outspread. Once a fish is within those talons, the Osprey rearranges the fish so that its head points forward. With a wing span of 4 l/2 to 6 feet, the Osprey can cover some ground. The nest is placed in a tree, on top of a utility pole, on rocks or flat ground. Some areas provide platforms for the nesting activity. The nest is a bulky mass made up of sticks and debris. The last photo in this series is the nest.

Habitat:

Seen at Jonathan Dickinson State Park which is a natural area.

Notes:

As I neared the end of a nature trail, I heard the distinctive chirping of Ospreys. I had been watching them from another area and had not realized the trail came in behind their nesting area. I looked up and into a pine tree and saw this gorgeous creature watching me. He sounded an alarm call and took to the air. There were young in the nest but I was unable to photograph them.