The Osprey at Lions Park

© Diane B Reed

The Osprey returned several weeks ago —

we think it's the same one who frequented the pond last summer and fall. 

He (or she) circles the park, trying to decide on the best vantage point for fishing in the pond.

© Diane B Reed

Finally, he perches on a snag on the island and surveys the pond, bobbing his head back and forth as he searches the pond for any movement that might signify a likely prey.

© Diane B Reed

© Diane B Reed

He's a patient hunter, cocking his head and bobbing back and forth for almost fifteen minutes. 

Suddenly, he drops precipitously off the branch in a steep dive, folds his wings tight to his body and plunges into the pond, disappearing below the surface. Unlike his cousin the Eagle, he doesn't pluck the fish from the surface, he goes right in after it.

In just a few moments he emerges from the water, flapping his broad wings and rising from the water with a fat trout in his talons. His patience paid off, and he flies off with his prize.

Just another exciting day at our small pond, a little bit of nature tucked into College Place.

© Diane B Reed

© Diane B Reed