Ospreys | Pandionidae

Visarenden | Águilas pescadoras

The family holds a single species worldwide, living almost entirely on live fish. Over shallow water the bird hangs hovering in one spot and then drops feet first; at the impact it often goes right under and hauls itself clear again with heavy beats, shaking the water out of its plumage on the wing. The outer toe can be turned to the rear, so the fish is clamped with two toes in front and two behind; the soles are studded with spiny scales and the claws are rounded in cross-section and strongly curved, giving purchase on slippery prey. The catch is carried head-forward and aligned with the body, which cuts down drag. The plumage is dense and oily, and the nostrils can be closed during the dive. In gliding flight the wing is kinked at the wrist, with the outer feathers drooping. Over the nest site comes a persistent series of short, rising whistles; poles, channel markers and purpose-built platforms are used without hesitation, close to people.