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Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
31.1089, -97.497
Field Notes
Description:
The osprey is a large bird of prey measuring 22-25 inches (56-64 cm) with a wingspan of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m). The sexes are nearly alike in plumage, but the female is slightly larger than the male. Adult plumage is dark brown above and white below. The white head has a dark crown with a characteristic dark brown streak on each side. Juvenile plumage resembles that of the adult, with buff to white tips on the feathers of the back and upper wing. In flight, the osprey's long, narrow wings appear to have a crook at the wrist where dark patches are also apparent.
Habitat:
Belton Lake
Notes:
When diving after fish, Ospreys can completely submerge themselves underwater and still be able to fly away with their prey. Most other fish-eating birds of prey can only pluck fish from the surface of the water as they fly by.
When they dive into the water, Osprey close their third eyelid – called a nictitating membrane – which is semi-transparent. It acts like goggles and helps them see clearly beneath the water.
When Osprey carry their prey, they always reposition the fish so that its head faces forward in a streamlined position for transporting through the air.
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