Many photographers, birders and wildlife enthusiast await each year for late march, the return of the Osprey. With the exception of the fish most are excited for its return. For us on the Jersey shore this large raptor can be found in many nesting areas. These powerful raptors can amaze and captivate an audience with their ability to dive at a high rate of speed and capture its primary food source fish. I have seen them use their powerful wings and hover above the water then tuck into a dive hitting the water with such power it becomes totally submerged. They must be a skilled hunter since others have told me ,though I have yet to witness, Bald Eagles will wait for the Osprey to catch a fish then steal the meal mid air. These masters of fishing will breed and raise its young teaching the next generation of master fisherman here in Jersey.
Watching the Osprey carry their prize back to the nest or for a afternoon feast you will notice they always carry the fish with the head facing forward.
These Osprey can be viewed all along the Jersey shore from late March to around August or September it is a great treat to watch them raise there young, watch their first flight, and beginning efforts of hunting.
I along with many are awaiting the return of the Osprey.
Wildlife Photography Blog
Heck yeah we are waiting, and I can’t wait to see them again. That 2nd image with the HUGE fish is incredible, it’s amazing it could fly with such a large fish in it’s talons. Great shots Steve.
Great Osprey shots. I photograph a lot of them in Florida during the winter and my goal has always been to capture one just as it plucks a fish from the water. These are magnificent birds and you’ve done an awesome job capturing them.
Steve, I know you and I spent many hours observing these birds (often together) at the Forsythe refuge. Like you, I can’t wait for their return, and hope that we get to see a number of successful families this year. They are truly magnificent birds, and I’m anxious to get more and better shots of them this year!
It must be amazing to watch an eagle steal a hanging fish from the talons of a flying Osprey; I will definitely keep an eye out for that.
Great photos Steve, I’m always interested in shots you post online.
Thanks for all the advise about nature watching and I’m looking forward to the spring season.
Later…