Osprey Landing Sequence

[Chris Calohan]

For all the power in those talons that can grab a five pound fish out of the water and do take out, these magnificent raptors are also quite graceful when making a delicate landing on a stubby tree limb.

[churly]

Interesting experiment.  Although I definitely like it, I almost think that any of the individual shots, but particularly the last one, might be just as strong by itself.  Not sure.Chuck

[Chris Calohan]

Interesting experiment.  Although I definitely like it, I almost think that any of the individual shots, but particularly the last one, might be just as strong by itself.  Not sure.Chuck

Like so?

[Eric Myrvaagnes]

Yes, that's a beauty.
How about showing the rest of them as single images, too?

[Chris Calohan]

Yes, that's a beauty.
How about showing the rest of them as single images, too?

Ok, the distance between 1 and 4 (already posted) is about 10 feet. What is not seen in any of the 4 shots is there were two branches and he opted for the higher one, thus the scale difference between 1 and 4.

[Eric Myrvaagnes]

It's a stunning series, both versions.

[Chris Calohan]

It's a stunning series, both versions.

He did all the work, I just observed and properly notated.

[Eric Myrvaagnes]

He did all the work, I just observed and properly notated.

We'll have to remember you on next National Stenographers Day.   

[Telecaster]

I prefer the individual photos to the composite myself. Maybe display 'em triptych style.

-Dave-

[churly]

What do you think Chris?

[Arlen]

I'm going to go against the grain and vote for the composite. I find it different and interesting.

[AnthonyM]

Great series, both in composite and individual form.

Probably also useful for an ornithologist wanting to understand osprey flight.

[Chris Calohan]

I'm with Arlen, and it's somewhat obvious in that's what I first posted. These are very powerful raptors with incredible strength in those wings and yet with all that power, there is also a great delicacy in their ability to not just make this kind of landing, but balance themselves for hours whilst, resting, preening or seeking other prey. 

While this is another composite, it shows their graceful side.

[Eric Myrvaagnes]

Another winner.