Bird Versus Fish

Osprey are such effective hunters, they have been known to catch multiple fish in a single dive. Yet sometimes the fish can win the battle. Because osprey lock shut their talons as they catch their prey, birds have been dragged underwater and drowned after lodging their talons in fish that are strong enough to fight back.

Notice how this osprey spotted off the coast of Maine, orients its catch longitudinally to prevent drag while flying.

Photo Courtesy Of: marsh_don@att.net FOHI Flickr site (joy of birding week) osprey with fish