The outstanding osprey

For many birds, especially tiny warblers, this is the time of migration back to their breeding grounds as the weather becomes more hospitable. We begin to see a variety of species in cemeteries and near lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal areas, pairing off and mating in preparation for nest building and procreating. 

One large raptor, in a class by itself (literally), is also back! The osprey is the only one in its family, the Pandionidae, according to Cornell University. 

We see a telltale white patch on a tree limb at our local cove, then watch this magnificent bird soar back and forth over the water in search of fish. Its coloration is white, black and brown, with a dark stripe across its head and eyes. Its underside is white, while its back and wings are brown. The female may have a “necklace” across her white chest. 

Seen from below in flight, they display a beautiful white underside and M-shaped wings adorned with dark ‘elbow’ patches.

They can reach speeds of up to 80 mph when in a steep dive, with a wingspan of up to six feet. Their unusual feet are designed to facilitate fishing, with one reversible toe on each foot that can face forward or back as needed. There are also small barbs on the underfoot to grasp the prey. These birds toss the fish into the air to align it with the head forward, making it aerodynamically apt for flying with it. Sometimes bald eagles opportunistically knock the fish from its beak in flight.

Ospreys are solitary birds, pairing up only during the breeding season in small groups called duets, as males and females have different vocal ranges when calling to each other. Their clutch is up to four offspring.

One year, I was traveling down a highway with a friend when we spotted an osprey flying to a nest on a cell tower. We searched the area, finally locating that nest overlooking a small, empty picnic area in an industrial complex. There was a lone juvenile bird, and a parent arrived to teach it how to fly! The adult took short trips from the nest and back, and its young followed each time, safely landing to remain in the nest for awhile. This amazing encounter was so unusual. I was astounded at the combination of luck, curiosity, and serendipity which played a part in allowing us to view such a special moment in avian life. 

I had heard about an osprey nest in a small, enclosed mall in New Hampshire on a street lamp with a flat top. I was able to locate it — a scraggly nest loosely assembled from small branches. Two young birds flew from it to explore the area and return, awaiting their parents’ arrival with fish from a local river behind the mall. 

Folks were settled at outdoor tables, observing with binoculars and taking notes and photos. The birds seemed unfazed by the cars and commotion below in this unusual habitat. 

Ospreys were endangered in the last century until DDT was banned and their numbers slowly rebounded. They are now prolific and found on every continent except Antarctica.

We feel fortunate to have this special bird back with us again for the season!