This male Osprey was coming into land with his body taut, his wings spread high and his magnificent talons well and truly spread. Osprey have large feet with huge talons (for catching and holding fish) so they will always perch on a clear branch, tree trunk or pole … anywhere they can balance. They have relatively long legs for a raptor, spiny footpads called spicules, long, sharp, curved claws, and a reversible outer toe to aid in gripping slippery fish. Canon 50D, EF70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM
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Comments
Picture perfect my friend, great detail
Many thanks …. heavens that was a fluke one I can tell you, very lucky it was focused.
– byronbackyard
Fantastic closeup!Ive been trying for something like this all week down here with no luck!
Thanks oldsalty … I spend hours and hours out in the estuary and it’s just a combination of luck, lighting and settings I reckon!
– byronbackyard
Beautiful capture! The strength in those talons must be enormous!!!
Thanks Trish, those talons are just awesome!
– byronbackyard
Magnificent capture!! . . .
nice shot! your bird pic’s are amazing!
Thanks so much, I’m pretty obsessed and passionate, it makes me happy!
– byronbackyard
Very dramatic, congrats on your feature!!
Many thanks!
– byronbackyard
This is certainly one fabulous capture….Laura
Many thanks for your kind comment!
– byronbackyard
June 22, 2010

Thanks heaps Teresa, very happy making!
– byronbackyard
YOu’re very welcome Byron