Gallery Spotlight
FLORIDA OSPREYS IN PALMS
By Kim B. Parrish
© 2020 – 36 x 36” Oil on Canvas
OSPREY
Pandion haliaetus
Protected by U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act
Using golden eyes that are a miracle of creation, ospreys can spy out fish from over 100 feet up. The hunting osprey dives at a precise angle while extending its long white legs straight down at the water—then hits the surface at up to 50 mph—often completely submerging itself. But, no worries; ospreys were designed with special nostrils that can shut out the water, and a unique set of opposing ‘thumbs’ for grasping prey. I have seen these raptors grab fish so big that they struggled to lift them out of the water.
Although they are global in range, ospreys have earned a special place among wildlife admirers here in Florida. Masters of the waterways, ospreys mate for life, and paddling in my canoe below their nests in cypress trees, I have been amazed at how vocal they are; projecting a constant stream of loud peeps and chirps as they communicate with each other.
My original osprey nest painting “Florida Ospreys in Palms” is 36 x 36 inches on canvas, and depicts two adults surveying an old nest over a fresh mullet lunch. Some of my paintings are also available as limited edition reproductions. Thanks for your interest in my work—I hope it inspires you to appreciate and protect Florida’s beautiful raptors.