Monday, April 20, 2015

Creature Feature #548: Osprey

The Osprey is a widespread member of the Hawk Family, occuring across North America, Europe and Australasia, and overwintering in South America and Africa.  He is a specialised piscivore. His outer toe is reversible - meaning he can grasp prey firmly with two claws forward, two back. The underside of his toes are covered in spines, to help hold on to wriggling, slippery prey. Prey is located from the air, with his sharp eyes well adapted to seeking prey beneath water. He hovers for a moment before plunging in feet-first, grabbing the fish with his specially modified talons.

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