Osprey

Description:

The osprey is a beautiful bird that is seen frequently during the summer months at Virginia Beach on salt water, brackish water, and on fresh water lakes. It appears much like a bald eagle and is called by many a "sea eagle." The wingspan of the bird to the left in the image was, as best I could approximate, just under four feet.

Habitat:

The osprey's habitat includes every continent with the exception of Antarctica. However, those found in South America are non-breeding when on that continent and only migrate there during the winter.

Notes:

This raptor pairing was found on their nest in Broad Bay, a brackish inside bay south of the Chesapeake Bay. At least two chicks were seen poking their heads above the nest's twigs and branches; however, I wanted to stay sufficiently distant to avoid disturbing this family. This image, as with several others taken that day, proved challenging, as the tides had to be timed to be slack, coupled with planning for light winds. Additionally, birds usually take off and land into the wind, which was another factor to be taken into consideration.