The Osprey differs in several respects from other diurnal birds of prey. Its toes are of equal length, its tarsi are reticulate, and its talons are rounded, rather than grooved. The osprey and owls are the only raptors whose outer toe is reversible, allowing them to grasp their prey with two toes in front and two behind. This is particularly helpful when they grab slippery fish. It has always presented something of a riddle to taxonomists, but here it is treated as the sole living member of the family Pandionidae, and the family listed in its traditional place as part of the order Falconiformes.
Brown Pelicans
Brown Pelicans
The Brown Pelican mainly feeds on fish, but occasionally eats amphibians, crustaceans, and the eggs and nestlings of birds. It nests in colonies in secluded areas, often on islands, vegetated land among sand dunes, thickets of shrubs and trees, and mangroves. Females lay two or three oval, chalky white eggs. Incubation takes 28 to 30 days with both sexes sharing duties. The newly hatched chicks are pink, turning gray or black within 4 to 14 days. About 63 days are needed for chicks to fledge. Six to 9 weeks after hatching, the juveniles leave the nest, and gather into small groups known as pods.
Excellent! Both these species are also easily found here in Costa Rica, though of course you have to go to the coast for the pelican. Very informative summaries. Saludos!
My favorite, the Osprey! π Great shots of it and the pelicans, HJ!
No doubt about that!
Thank you so much, Donna. π
Excellent! Both these species are also easily found here in Costa Rica, though of course you have to go to the coast for the pelican. Very informative summaries. Saludos!
Thank you very much, Paul. π
I love the whistle of an Osprey and enjoy reading about and seeing a Brown Pelican.
Thank you, Jane. π
Fine shots HJ.
Thank you very much, Tom. π
Splendide aperture alari
Buongiorno, silvia
Grazie mille, cara Silvia. π