Close-ups of an Osprey | Photos by Donna

Close-ups of an Osprey

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This handsome fella was keeping a watchful eye (and a deaf ear) on the surroundings near his nest platform where his mate was loudly demanding attention for more nesting materials.

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Osprey (male) on watch

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Osprey Close-up

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Osprey Talons

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All raptors have four long talons, three in the front and one in the back.

But only the Osprey has specialized talons. When it plunges to seize a fish, the Osprey’s outer front talon rotates to the rear, giving the Osprey two grasping talons front and back. Each talon is also lined with tiny spines on the bottom to help the Osprey hang on to their slippery prey.

A truly skilled fisherman!

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Tags: bird photography, birdwatching, Chesapeake Bay, Eastern Neck NWR, Eastern Shore Maryland, Maryland birds, Osprey, osprey talons