Osprey Catches a Fish -- Then a Pelican Swoops In

An osprey captured a fish, but a pelican swooped in to steal it mid-flight. The pelican seized both prey and the osprey’s talon, forcing a dramatic release. Pelicans are known kleptoparasites, often targeting successful catches from other birds. In size terms, pelicans range from 5.5 to 33 pounds, while ospreys typically weigh 2.6 to 4.4 pounds. Kleptoparasitism occurs when resources are scarce and birds compete for prey. Pelican theft success varies; osprey speed and awareness can thwart ambushes. Ospreys hunt with exceptional eyesight and plunge into the water, while their feathers stay dry thanks to a protective oil layer. The article notes the opportunistic nature of pelicans and the osprey’s hunting prowess.