Tag: birds

Inside the Tropical World of the Parker Aviary at the San Diego Zoo

For bird photographers and wildlife lovers, it is one of the most immersive experiences in the zoo.

Tucked within the lush Lost Forest section of the San Diego Zoo, the Parker Aviary feels less like an exhibit and more like stepping into a living rainforest. The moment visitors walk through the doors, the sounds of rushing water, echoing bird calls, and rustling leaves replace the noise of the city outside.

A Walk-Through Rainforest

Unlike traditional bird enclosures, Parker Aviary is designed as a free-flight aviary where birds soar overhead, perch near pathways, and interact naturally within dense tropical vegetation. The exhibit focuses primarily on species from Central and South America, creating the feeling of wandering through a humid jungle canopy. 

The aviary’s winding paths, wooden bridges, and shaded foliage create endless opportunities for photography. Soft filtered light pours through the leaves while birds appear suddenly from the greenery, often at eye level.

Among the species visitors may encounter are:

  • Andean cock-of-the-rocks
  • Toco toucans
  • Curl-crested aracaris
  • Blue-crowned motmots
  • Inca terns
  • Sunbitterns
  • Crested oropendolas 

The bright orange Andean cock-of-the-rock is often the star attraction, drawing crowds with its bizarre crest and glowing plumage. Its color almost looks unreal against the deep green surroundings.

The Golden Lion Tamarins

One of the most unique aspects of Parker Aviary is the addition of golden lion tamarins — small endangered primates that share the exhibit with the birds. According to the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, this is the only place in the zoo where guests can walk through an exhibit alongside free-moving primates. 

The tiny monkeys leap through vines and branches overhead while birds move through the same space below. The combination creates a constantly changing rainforest scene where something interesting is always happening.

Visitors and photographers frequently describe the aviary as one of the highlights of the zoo experience. On Reddit, several guests called the aviaries “beyond incredible” and praised Parker Aviary for its immersive atmosphere and close-up wildlife encounters. 

A Paradise for Bird Photography

Parker Aviary is especially popular among photographers because the birds are often much closer than they would be in large open exhibits. The thick foliage creates beautiful natural backgrounds and soft bokeh effects that help portraits stand out.

Patience is rewarded here. Sit quietly near the stream or along the railings, and eventually a toucan may glide overhead or a motmot may perch nearby long enough for a portrait.

Morning hours are often the best time to visit, when the aviary is quieter and the birds are more active.

Conservation Through Connection

The San Diego Zoo has long been recognized for its bird conservation programs and one of the most diverse bird collections in North America. 

Parker Aviary helps introduce visitors to species many people would never otherwise encounter. By creating an immersive environment rather than a simple viewing area, the exhibit encourages visitors to slow down, observe behavior, and appreciate the incredible diversity of tropical bird life.

For many guests, it becomes one of the most memorable stops in the entire zoo.

Whether you are a birder, photographer, or simply someone looking for a peaceful corner of the zoo, Parker Aviary offers a chance to disappear into the rainforest for a little while — without ever leaving San Diego.

Sky Kings of the Cliffs: Peregrine Falcons at Torrey Pines

There are few places in Southern California where raw coastal beauty and high-speed wildlife drama come together as seamlessly as Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Known for its windswept cliffs, rare pine trees, and sweeping ocean views, this stretch of coastline is also home to one of the fastest animals on Earth—the Peregrine Falcon.

A Perfect Home Above the Pacific

The sandstone cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach provide ideal nesting habitat for peregrine falcons. High ledges offer safety from predators and unobstructed views of the skies and shoreline below. From these vantage points, falcons can scan for prey—shorebirds, pigeons, and small seabirds—before launching into action.

Unlike many birds of prey that build large nests, peregrines prefer a simple scrape in gravel or dirt along cliff edges. It’s minimalist, but perfectly suited for life on the edge.

The Fastest Dive in Nature

What makes peregrine falcons truly legendary is their speed. During a hunting dive—known as a stoop—they can exceed 200 miles per hour, making them the fastest animal on the planet. Watching one descend along the cliffs at Torrey Pines is unforgettable: a blur of motion, a sudden strike, and then silence again as the ocean continues to roll below.

Their streamlined bodies, pointed wings, and powerful talons are all built for this precise, high-speed hunting style.

A Conservation Comeback

The presence of peregrine falcons at Torrey Pines is also a conservation success story. In the mid-20th century, populations across North America declined sharply due to pesticide use, especially DDT. Thanks to bans on harmful chemicals and dedicated recovery efforts, peregrines have made a remarkable comeback.

Today, spotting one soaring above the reserve is a reminder of what conservation can achieve.

When and Where to Look

If you’re hoping to photograph or observe peregrine falcons at Torrey Pines, timing and patience are key:

  • Best time of day: Early morning or late afternoon, when birds are most active
  • Best locations: Cliffside trails like the Razor Point and Beach Trail areas
  • Breeding season: Spring into early summer, when activity near nesting sites increases

Look for fast, direct flight patterns and sharp wingbeats. Peregrines are often seen gliding along cliff edges or perched high above the trails.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Hunt

For photographers, peregrine falcons offer both a challenge and a reward:

  • Bring a telephoto lens (at least 300mm) to safely capture distant birds
  • Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion during flight
  • Watch the wind—falcons often face into it when hovering or preparing to dive
  • Be ready—hunts happen quickly and without warning

Even if you don’t capture the perfect shot, the experience alone is worth it.

Respecting Wildlife and Habitat

As exciting as it is to see peregrine falcons up close, it’s important to respect their space. Stay on designated trails, keep a safe distance from nesting areas, and follow any posted closures during breeding season. These protections help ensure the falcons continue to thrive along this fragile coastline.

A Moment Worth Waiting For

At Torrey Pines, the landscape itself is dramatic—but the sky adds another dimension. A quiet walk along the cliffs can suddenly turn into a front-row seat to one of nature’s most incredible displays of speed and precision.

Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or casual visitor, catching a glimpse of a peregrine falcon here is something you won’t forget. It’s a reminder that even in a place known for its scenery, the real magic is often moving just above you.

🦩 The Pink Ambassadors of Coronado: Flamingos at the Marriott

Right near the entrance of the Marriott Coronado Resort and Spa area series of fresh water ponds where you can a group of flamingos strutting, preening and standing in the shallows. These striking birds — often identified as Chilean flamingos— bring an enchanting splash of color to the tropical landscaping and are a favorite photo opportunity for guests and passersby alike.

While Coronado’s golden beaches and sparkling bay views are a draw in themselves, the flamingos offer something extra: a touch of whimsy and wonder. They’re known to hang out right by the Lagoon area accessible from the Bayshore Bikeway, so even if you aren’t staying at the hotel, a quiet stroll along the waterfront could lead to a charming flamingo sighting.

📸 Why Visitors Love Them

  • Iconic photo ops: Kids and adults alike pause to snap pictures of the elegant birds — their vibrant pink feathers make a lovely contrast against the deep greens of the resort landscaping and the blue backdrop of San Diego Bay.
  • Unexpected wildlife moment: It’s not every day you come across flamingos in Southern California, so they feel like a special little secret of Coronado.
  • Accessible to all: You don’t need a room key to enjoy the flamingos — curious visitors can spot them from nearby public paths near the ferry landing and waterfront promenade.

If you are not a guest of the hotel or do not want to pay the resort parking fee you will have to find street parking in front of the hotel along Glorietta Boulevard. Park south of the resort at Tidelands Park and walk north along the Bay Shore Bike Path. Or lastly park north of the resort ant the Coronado Ferry Landing Parking lot and walk south along the bay shore bike path.

The freshwater ponds are located to the right of the main hotel entrance on the south side of the building.

Flamingos in San Diego Bay: Rare Sightings Along a Familiar Shoreline

Flamingos in San Diego Bay: Rare Sightings Along a Familiar Shoreline

San Diego Bay is home to more than 300 bird species throughout the year, but flamingos are not among the region’s native wildlife. Still, on rare occasions, observers have reported flamingos along the bay’s shallow edges, drawing attention from birders and curious onlookers alike.

These sightings, while unusual, are not without explanation. Over the weekend I was driving southbound on State Route 75 from Coronado to Imperial Beach when I spotted 2 pink dots off to my left in the marsh shallows. I turned around in Imperial Beach, headed north to the Bike Path parking lot accessible from NB 75. And walk north for about 15min to find the two flamingos about 200 yards off shore. It was High Tide at the time which flooded the shallow marsh and coaxed the flamingos and other shore birds closer to shore.

Not Native, but Occasionally Present

Flamingos do not naturally occur in Southern California. Their typical range includes the Caribbean, parts of South America, Africa, and the Galápagos Islands. Experts generally agree that flamingos seen in San Diego County are likely birds that escaped or dispersed from captive populations rather than true wild migrants.

In the mid-20th century, flamingos were commonly kept in open-air zoo exhibits and private collections. Some individuals were able to fly beyond their enclosures and settle into nearby wetlands. A small number adapted to local conditions and remained in Southern California for extended periods, occasionally appearing in bays, lagoons, and salt ponds.

Habitat Conditions in San Diego Bay

Despite its urban setting, San Diego Bay contains habitat features that can support flamingos. Shallow waters, mudflats, and salt ponds provide feeding opportunities similar to those found in the species’ native environments. Flamingos feed on algae, brine shrimp, and other small invertebrates, filtering food from the water using specialized bills.

The bay’s salt works and managed wetlands, particularly in the southern portion of the bay, offer stable water levels and limited wave action—conditions suitable for wading birds that rely on calm, shallow areas.

Public Interest and Documentation

When flamingos appear in the bay, the sightings are typically well documented. Photographs and field notes are often shared through birding networks and community science platforms, where experts review and confirm observations. These records help distinguish between escaped birds, long-term residents, and misidentified species.

While flamingos attract attention, wildlife officials generally discourage close approaches. Maintaining distance reduces stress on the birds and minimizes the risk of disturbance to surrounding wildlife.

A Reminder of the Bay’s Ecological Value

Though flamingos are not part of San Diego Bay’s native ecosystem, their presence highlights the importance of coastal wetlands. The same habitats that occasionally support a flamingo also sustain migratory shorebirds, waterfowl, and endangered species year-round.

Even rare and unexpected sightings underscore the bay’s role as a critical refuge in a heavily developed region—one that continues to support a wide range of avian life.

Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge: Life Thriving at the Edge of the Desert

Stretching along the southern shore of the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is one of Southern California’s most surprising and important wildlife destinations. What looks like a stark desert landscape at first glance quickly reveals itself as a vital oasis for birds, mammals, and migrating wildlife traveling the Pacific Flyway.

A Refuge Born from Agriculture and Conservation

The refuge was established in 1930, originally to provide habitat for migratory birds drawn to agricultural runoff in the Imperial Valley. In 1998, it was renamed in honor of Sonny Bono, the late congressman and entertainer who played a key role in expanding and protecting public lands in California.

Today, the refuge spans more than 37,000 acres of managed wetlands, desert scrub, and agricultural fields. These habitats work together to support wildlife in a region where natural water sources are scarce.

A Birding Hotspot of International Importance

If you love birds, this place is legendary. More than 400 bird species have been recorded here, making it one of the most significant birding locations in the western United States.

Depending on the season, visitors may spot:

  • Snow geese and Ross’s geese by the thousands
  • White-faced ibis and long-legged shorebirds
  • Burrowing owls tucked into desert edges
  • Raptors like northern harriers and peregrine falcons

Winter is especially spectacular, when migratory birds arrive in massive numbers and transform the refuge into a living, moving landscape.

Exploring the Refuge

The refuge is very visitor-friendly, with options for both casual sightseeing and serious wildlife observation.

Highlights include:

  • Auto tour routes that loop through wetlands and fields
  • Walking trails for quiet wildlife viewing
  • Photography pullouts perfect for sunrise and sunset light

The flat terrain and open skies make it an ideal spot for photography, especially when the mountains reflect off the water or flocks of birds fill the horizon.

Why This Refuge Matters

Despite ongoing environmental challenges facing the Salton Sea, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge remains a critical lifeline for wildlife. Carefully managed water flows and habitat restoration efforts help sustain species that depend on this stopover during long migrations.

The refuge is also a powerful reminder that even altered landscapes can become essential ecosystems when conservation and stewardship come together.

Planning Your Visit

The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is located near Niland, California, and is open year-round during daylight hours. Cooler months—from late fall through early spring—offer the most comfortable weather and the highest concentration of wildlife.

Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or simply curious about one of California’s most unusual natural areas, the Sonny Bono Wildlife Refuge is a place that challenges expectations and rewards patience.

Bird Checklist: Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge supports hundreds of bird species throughout the year. This checklist highlights commonly seen and notable birds, especially during peak migration and winter months.

Waterfowl

  • Snow Goose
  • Ross’s Goose
  • Canada Goose
  • Northern Pintail
  • American Wigeon
  • Green-winged Teal
  • Cinnamon Teal
  • Northern Shoveler
  • Ruddy Duck

Shorebirds

  • American Avocet
  • Black-necked Stilt
  • Long-billed Dowitcher
  • Marbled Godwit
  • Willet
  • Western Sandpiper
  • Least Sandpiper
  • Killdeer

Wading Birds

  • Great Blue Heron
  • Great Egret
  • Snowy Egret
  • Cattle Egret
  • White-faced Ibis

Gulls & Terns

  • Ring-billed Gull
  • California Gull
  • Laughing Gull
  • Caspian Tern
  • Forster’s Tern

Raptors

  • Northern Harrier
  • Red-tailed Hawk
  • Swainson’s Hawk
  • American Kestrel
  • Peregrine Falcon
  • Bald Eagle (occasional but increasing)

Owls

  • Burrowing Owl
  • Great Horned Owl

Desert & Upland Birds

  • Gambel’s Quail
  • Loggerhead Shrike
  • Greater Roadrunner
  • Horned Lark

Songbirds & Others

  • Yellow-headed Blackbird
  • Red-winged Blackbird
  • Marsh Wren
  • Savannah Sparrow
  • Say’s Phoebe

Birding tip: Winter mornings offer the best light and bird activity. Bring binoculars even if you’re just driving the auto loop—you’ll be surprised how close the birds can be.

Local Residents Find Space to Grow at the Tijuana River Community Garden

The Tijuana River Community Garden, established 2002, has become one of the most active green spaces in the South Bay, offering residents a place to grow food, strengthen community ties, and cultivate a shared connection to the land. The site of the community garden lies in the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (TRV), a region that historically hosted agricultural operations, including vegetable farms, dairies, and ranches. Over time, many farms in the valley experienced floods, soil disruption, or were abandoned.

The Tijuana River Community Garden, established 2002, has become one of the most active green spaces in the South Bay, offering residents a place to grow food, strengthen community ties, and cultivate a shared connection to the land. The site of the community garden lies in the Tijuana River Valley Regional Park (TRV), a region that historically hosted agricultural operations, including vegetable farms, dairies, and ranches. Over time, many farms in the valley experienced floods, soil disruption, or were abandoned.

The commercial success of large-scale agriculture in the valley was severely curtailed by flooding and, most critically, by the ongoing transboundary pollution issue. Beginning in the mid-20th century and accelerating rapidly due to Tijuana’s population growth and inadequate infrastructure, the Tijuana River became a major conduit for raw sewage, industrial waste, and sediment.

2025 brought renewed urgency around environmental issues in the surrounding valley. The region has been affected by a persistent sewage and pollution crisis — runoff and untreated wastewater from across the border entering the valley, leading to toxic contamination in water, soil, and air. As a result — and citing “health and safety of gardeners, farmers and staff,” and “increased flooding and related challenges in recent years” — Resource Conservation District of Greater San Diego County (RCDGSDC), a non-profit/quasi-governmental organization tasked with environmental conservation projects locally announced it would end its lease and management of the garden in October 2025.

In November 2025, the county selected Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center (OGLC), a nonprofit based in National City, as the garden’s interim operator for up to one year. The appointment of Olivewood Gardens as interim operator provides continuity for now, but long-term viability depends on final negotiations, environmental remediation, and the ability to ensure safe operation.

Soar Into October: Hawktober Returns in San Diego County

Every autumn, something special takes flight across San Diego County: Hawktober, the Parks & Recreation Department’s annual tribute to our local birds of prey. This year marks the seventh edition of the event — a month-long celebration dedicated to hawks, owls, falcons, and the many fascinating adaptations that make them apex aerial hunters. 

What Is Hawktober?

Hawktober is a series of free educational workshops held in county parks, preserves, campgrounds, and nature centers. The goal? To bring wildlife education to local communities, connect people (young and old) with live animal ambassadors, and deepen appreciation for the roles raptors play in San Diego’s ecosystems.

See my Post on Hawktobere here https://socalexposure.com/2025/10/04/october-is-hawktober/

I attended the Saturday October 4th Event at the Tijuana River Valley Campground. The group was introduced to 4 raptor ambassadors

Ranger Danica introduced us to Ferris the Ferruginous Hawk Ambassador

SD Parks Manager Charles brought out Buster the Red Tailed Hawk Ambassador

Ranger Samantha bought out the Barn Owl

Manager Charles with Athena the Burrowing Owl

🦁 Wild Encounters: Exploring the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Safari Park isn’t your typical zoo. Nestled in the rolling hills of Escondido, California, this 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary brings you face-to-face with animals in environments that mirror their natural habitats — wide, open, and wild.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, a family planning a weekend outing, or a wildlife enthusiast, the Safari Park offers something for everyone. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience.

What Makes the Safari Park Unique?

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the expansive cousin of the world-famous San Diego Zoo. While both are operated by the nonprofit San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, the Safari Park is more focused on large-scale conservation efforts and giving animals room to roam.

Unlike traditional zoos with enclosures, the Safari Park features massive savanna-like habitats where giraffes, rhinos, antelope, and even African elephants share the land — much like they would in the wild.

Top Attractions & Experiences

🐘 1. Africa Tram

One of the park’s most popular attractions, the Africa Tram is an open-air guided tour through the African Plains. You’ll ride through herds of animals roaming freely, with expert narration providing insight into conservation efforts, animal behavior, and habitat restoration.

🦒 2. Caravan Safari (Add-On Experience)

Want to get even closer? Book a Caravan Safari, where you’ll board a safari truck and feed giraffes right from your hand. It’s an unforgettable experience that brings the wild within reach.

🐅 3. Tiger Trail

The lush, forested Tiger Trail lets you observe majestic Sumatran tigers up close. Designed to mimic their native habitat, the trail winds through waterfalls, observation decks, and glass-viewing areas — perfect for snapping a few memorable photos.

🦏 4. Walkabout Australia

This exhibit transports visitors down under, featuring kangaroos, wallabies, cassowaries, and other Australian wildlife. You can even walk through open areas where kangaroos might hop right past you.

🧒 5. Play Areas and Animal Encounters

Families will love the Savanna Cool Zone, a water play area for kids, and the Animal Encounters where you can meet smaller ambassador animals. There’s also the Petting Kraal, where kids can brush goats and sheep.

Conservation at Its Core

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is more than entertainment — it’s a hub of conservation science. The Nikolaus Nature Preserve, Rhino Rescue Center, and Frozen Zoo are just a few examples of the groundbreaking work being done to save endangered species around the world.

Their motto, “We fight extinction,” isn’t just a tagline — it’s a mission backed by research, education, and action.

Tips for Visiting

  • Plan ahead: Tickets can sell out during peak times. Buy online and check for available add-on safaris.
  • Dress comfortably: You’ll be walking a lot. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a hat, and stay hydrated.
  • Beat the heat: Mornings and late afternoons are best for animal activity and cooler temps.
  • Go all-in: If your budget allows, splurge on a behind-the-scenes tour or animal encounter — they’re worth every penny.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Southern California. It’s where nature, adventure, and conservation come together to create a day you won’t forget.

So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to go on safari — no passport required.

Robb Field Loop Walkway: Scenic Riverside Path in Ocean Beach

There are multiple parking options along the trail. Beginning on the western end of the trail at the Ocean Beach Dog Beach Parking Lot and few hundred yards east along the Robb Field Parking Lot

Tucked along the San Diego River in Ocean Beach, the Robb Field Loop Walkway is a hidden gem for walkers, joggers, and cyclists who want a peaceful route with a touch of coastal charm. This easy, flat loop circles the athletic fields of Robb Field and connects to the scenic San Diego River Trail, offering a refreshing mix of open park space, waterfront views, and breezy ocean air.

A Walk with a View

The loop itself is about 1.5 miles, making it the perfect distance for a quick walk, a warm-up jog, or even a leisurely dog stroll. As you circle around, you’ll see wide green lawns filled with soccer players, skateboarders, and families enjoying the day. Look west and the path opens up to the San Diego River estuary, where herons, egrets, and osprey can often be spotted fishing in the calm waters.

Connection to the San Diego River Trail

One of the best parts of the Robb Field Loop is that it connects seamlessly to the San Diego River Trail, a multi-use path stretching inland for miles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can head east along the river toward Mission Valley or west toward the Ocean Beach Dog Beach area.

Family & Fitness Friendly

The walkway is paved and flat, making it accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. Along the loop you’ll also find exercise stations, benches, and shaded spots—perfect for breaking up your walk with a stretch or water break. Since Robb Field is also home to a skate park, ball fields, and tennis courts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy before or after the walk.

Best Time to Visit

Morning and evening are especially beautiful times to stroll the loop. Early risers will enjoy calm air and bird activity along the estuary, while sunset brings soft colors over the river and the silhouettes of palm trees along the horizon.

A Local Favorite

While many visitors head straight to the beach, locals know Robb Field Loop Walkway as a quieter spot for exercise, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It’s not a strenuous hike, but rather a slice of everyday San Diego life with its mix of nature, recreation, and community.

👉 Tip for photographers: Bring your camera for the golden hour. The estuary, palm trees, and distant Ocean Beach Pier create postcard-worthy shots.

🦅 Ospreys of Shelter Island: San Diego’s Coastal Raptors

If you’ve ever strolled along the waterfront on Shelter Island and looked up to see a large bird hovering gracefully above the bay, chances are you’ve spotted an osprey. Known as the “fish hawk,” this striking bird of prey has made a comfortable home here in San Diego’s maritime backyard.

A Natural Fisherman in an Urban Setting

Shelter Island offers the perfect blend of natural habitat and human-made infrastructure that ospreys have come to favor. With calm bay waters rich in fish and an abundance of tall structures like light poles, boat masts, and channel markers, ospreys have carved out a niche among the marinas and piers. It’s not uncommon to spot their bulky stick nests perched high above the docks, often near the Shelter Island Launch Ramp or around America’s Cup Harbor.

A Front-Row Seat to Nature

Watching an osprey hunt is a thrilling experience. These raptors soar high, scanning the water with laser-sharp vision. Then, in an instant, they dive feet-first into the bay, emerging with a wriggling fish clutched in their powerful talons. It’s a daily drama that plays out just steps from the sidewalk — and a reminder that even in the heart of the city, nature thrives.

Season of the Osprey

While ospreys can be seen in San Diego year-round, their breeding season typically runs from March to August. During these months, you might see pairs working together to build or repair nests, calling out with sharp whistles, or feeding their young. If you’re lucky, you might spot fledglings learning to fly — a heartening sight that signals the continued health of our coastal ecosystem.

A Conservation Comeback

Ospreys weren’t always so easy to spot. In the mid-20th century, their numbers plummeted due to pesticide use, especially DDT. But since the ban of such chemicals and the protection of nesting sites, osprey populations have rebounded across the U.S., including right here in San Diego Bay. Their presence on Shelter Island is a quiet conservation success story.

Where to Look

For the best osprey-watching:

  • Walk along the Shelter Island shoreline promenade near the boat launches.
  • Look up at tall poles or navigation beacons — nesting sites are often quite visible.
  • Early morning and late afternoon are great times to see them hunting.

Bring your binoculars, a camera, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re a birder, photographer, or casual observer, spotting an osprey in action is always a memorable moment.