Our two baby ospreys are changing daily, and at three weeks old are a strange combination of baby down and juvenile feathers which can be quite comical. Probably the most amusing thing about them at the moment is their giant ‘clown’ feet , which are growing at a faster rate than their heads. No wonder, as the feet are the ‘business end’ of an osprey and their future ability to provide for themselves depends entirely on these vital tools. Though an ospreys beak looks ( as is ) sharp and lethal, it is really the feet which do the cathing and killing of fish. Next time you see one of the parents stadning up on the nest, cast an eye on those enormous talons and notice the cleverly adapted skin on their feet which effectively give them an almsot velcro like grip on thier prey – truely amazing adaptations.
Emma Rawling Perthshire Ranger