_RK_7323 osprey splash 2014

Ospreys certainly make quite a splash while fishing – the sound the osprey makes as it hurtles into the water is distinct.  Even with my back turned I know when an osprey has struck the lake.

hover point

The osprey has come to a hover while deciding whether or not to dive into the river for a fish. Always takes my breath away to see a bird this large have the strength and agility to stall in its flight – and then tip over into a swift dive or level out and continue the hunt.

osprey struggle

In response to a question being asked about the first osprey photo: it took the male osprey 7 seconds from striking the water to clearing the water with the large bass. Here is part of the struggle between as yet unseen fish and hungry osprey.