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What special foot adaptation helps an osprey catch prey?

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The osprey possesses two primary foot adaptations that allow it to effectively hunt and secure slippery fish:

  • Reversible outer toe: Unlike many other birds of prey, the osprey’s outer toe can be reversed, which provides a more secure grip for handling its aquatic prey.1
  • Sharp spicules: The soles of the osprey's toes are covered in sharp, spike-like structures called spicules. These provide the necessary traction to maintain a firm hold on fish, which are notoriously difficult to grasp due to their slippery scales.12

These specialized features enable the osprey to plunge feet-first into the water, seize its prey with its long, curved talons, and carry the fish to a perch to feed.2