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Osprey
[Times photo: 1997 ]
The osprey is a formidable hunter often confused with the bald eagle. |
By TERRY TOMALIN, Times Outdoors Writer
© St. Petersburg Times, published May 5, 2000
People often confuse this bird of prey, sometimes called a "fish hawk," with the bald eagle because of its white head. Although not as large as our symbol of national pride, the osprey is an equally formidable hunter. This bird plunges feet first into the water and grabs its prey with a pair of sharp claws.
Old salts sometimes talk of catching fish with osprey talons still attached, the theory being that the prey was too large to carry and the bird drowned rather than letting go. Whether this is true is a subject of debate. But one thing is for sure, osprey populations are on the increase. Their nests often are visible atop poles and old trees in waterfront areas. One of the best places to view these majestic predators is Honeymoon Island State Recreation Area.
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