Flame me if you want, but osprey are really pretty birds

[wysimdnwyg]

[BeFree]

1. I helped hand raise a fledgling once

The poor fella had a fierce attitude, but succumbed to the fish which had to be force fed by holding open his beak. After a few days of getting used to my prying, he would quickly gobble up the offering.

I've spent many a magic hour watching the 'spreys crashing into open waters, talon first, then flying away (sometimes) with a nice fish.

DDT did a number on the specie, but a remarkable recovery has taken place since it was banned in this country.

I once spotted a fledgling first take wing from it's humongous nest. As it hovered just above the nest, it issued forth a call which to my mind seemed to be saying: "Momma, momma, look, I'm flying!" (Wiping tear from eye)

[StClone]

2. Thanks to DDT Ban

These master fish catchers have come back Continent-wide. In my city there are three active nest (and equal or more Bald Eagles).

As for DDT I have seen posts here by entomologists (Chemical Chem reps?) espousing a rethink on the banned pesticide. To them I say let the Osprey soar.

[bif]

3. They're hardly "little".

Good sized birds if you've ever seen one in the flesh (feather?).