Osprey

Osprey
Merritt Island NWR

The Osprey is one of our most common raptors here in central Florida.  It doesn't matter too much where you are--at a wildlife refuge or in the city.  If you're near a lake of any size, try looking around to nearby cell towers, power or phone lines, etc.  You're likely to see an Osprey.  It may be devouring a fish; it may be at its nest.  They're everywhere here.  Sometimes (I admit) I ignore them, hoping to find birds that are more "interesting."  But in reality, these are pretty spectacular birds.  I don't know that any bird is better at fishing, and they have fantastic eyes.

Osprey
Viera Wetlands

They are princes of their world. Now, I don't think it would be fair to Bald Eagles to call Ospreys kings.  After all, Bald Eagles are larger, also very adept at fishing, and are capable of stealing fish from Ospreys.  The two photos below are of an osprey fleeing a Bald Eagle.  Unfortunately, I couldn't get the eagle in the frame, but it was successful in snatching away the Osprey's pretty fine catch.

Osprey
Central Winds Park

Osprey
Central Winds Park

Osprey
Viera Wetlands

Osprey
Orlando Wetlands Park