The Osprey is a rather unique Bird of Prey where their outer toe is reversible allowing them to grasp with two toes in front and two behind. This is particularly helpful when they grab slippery fish. Only the Osprey and Owls have this particular feature. The efficiency of this “grasp” can allow for Ospreys to even catch two fish in one strike. When prey has been captured, the wide outstretched wings will provide adequate lift to retreat from their hunting grounds. In flight, the Osprey will orient their catch with head forward to reduce drag for efficient flight.
The sexes appear fairly similar, but the adult male can be distinguished from the female by its slimmer body and narrower wings. The colored breast band, or “chest plate” of the male is also weaker than that of the female, or is non-existent. It is straightforward to determine the sex in a breeding pair, but harder with individual birds.
The osprey is the second most widely distributed raptor species, after the peregrine falcon. If there is water to sustain an adequate food supply, the Osprey will be perched for its hunt! Listen closely for a repetitive shrill chirp and its a good indication that an individual is call for its mate!