After allowing us to examine its belly band, it flew, showing us its auburn tail. We then located the tall tower and were shortly treated to good looks at a circling bird with white underparts. When it landed on the side of the tower, we were able to see its black semi-crest, bandit mask and even dark streaks of a necklace on its neck. This latter indicated the bird is a female. The osprey soon sailed forth again so that from below we could see her black wrist marks and long, backward swept wings.
Ospreys are one of the most widely distributed species in the world.
They are in a family by themselves, ranked between hawks and falcons. They differ anatomically from other diurnal birds of prey both in some internal structures and outwardly in long strong claws that are completely round. Their toes are of equal length with lower surface covered with spicules, which help them hold on to slippery fish. They grip fish with both feet, positioning it with head pointed forward to reduce air resistance. This week we have seen ospreys in Packery Channel Park, and along the road to Port Aransas.