Ospreys at Long Reef

A sublime day at Long Reef photographing Osprey. What magnificent, wondrous birds!  The highlight  was watching one dive for a catch a fish. I met a wonderful, friendly local (Rob) who gave me lots of useful info on the best circumstances (relating to wind and tide) and places to best photograph them. We really connected. All in all, what an epic and priceless experience!  I'll definitely be back.

Some interesting facts about Osprey

• Ospreys eat almost exclusively fish and are superbly adapted for catching them, with sharp talons, reversible outer toes, and barbed footpads to grip slippery prey.
• They can spot fish from up to 40 meters in the air and dive feet-first into the water to catch them.
• Ospreys are found on every continent except Antarctica, making them one of the most widely distributed birds of prey.
• Their nostrils close when they dive underwater, preventing water from rushing in.
• Ospreys migrate thousands of kilometres between their breeding and wintering grounds. Some travel from northern Europe to West Africa, or from North America to South America.
• They return to the same nest year after year, often adding to it until it becomes massive—sometimes over 2 meters across.
• One of the only raptors with a reversible outer toe, allowing them to grasp with two toes in front and two behind—perfect for carrying fish.
• Ospreys usually carry fish head-first in flight to reduce wind resistance.
• Once threatened by pesticides like DDT, osprey populations have made a strong recovery thanks to conservation efforts and cleaner waterways.
• In some cultures, the osprey symbolizes vision, power, and adaptability due to its keen eyesight and mastery over air and water.

Scenery along the way