Skopets is the best angler in the world of birds of prey

An osprey, or a skopec is a bird of prey of the family of skopins. Many scientists are sure that among the birds it is the best angler, as it is able to fish even in rivers with a very fast current. Alas, today the life of this inhabitant of the heavens is difficult to call carefree, because through the fault of man he was on the verge of extinction. But let's talk about everything in order.

Areal

So, first, we'll figure out where the Skoptsi live. Photo of these birds, made in different parts of the world, indicate that these birds have settled on virtually all continents, except for Antarctica. True, depending on the season, they can migrate from one region to another, thereby avoiding the cold of winter.

Therefore, in Russia they can be found only in the summer or late spring. The same applies to Iceland, Scandinavia and some states of North America. In addition, with the arrival of cold weather, these birds flock together to warm regions. For example, in the southern part of China, East Asia, Africa, Indonesia or Malaysia.

Skopets is a fairly large bird. On average, it grows to 50-60 cm in length, with the range of its wings can reach 140-160 cm. It is noteworthy that females always outnumber their chevalier. This difference can be seen even with the naked eye, because their weight is too different.

All Skoptsy wear brown or black plumage, which only slightly differs in color, depending on their place of residence. But the lower part (chest and stomach) in the bird is white or light gray. Around the eyes there is a black fringing of feathers, which smoothly passes into two parallel strips, reaching to her shoulders. Thanks to them, it seems that a dark mask is masked on the feathered predator, hiding its true appearance.

Diet of the Skopje

Skopets - a bird, whose menu for the most part consists of "fish dishes". According to scientists, fish makes up more than 90% of everything eaten by a predator. That is why in the world of feathered creatures this species is considered one of the best hunter-diver. In addition, fresh fish serve as an excellent source of moisture for the predator, and therefore he rarely drinks simple water.

However, this does not mean that the skopec does not hunt for another game. If the weather or terrain does not allow fishing, then the bird can easily switch to other purposes. For example, rodents, reptiles, insects and even other birds can become a supper for a predator. Moreover, there is evidence that the Skoptsy hunted alligator cubs, which in themselves could become formidable rivals.

Features of behavior

Given the diet of this predator, it is not surprising that a skopec is a bird that has become accustomed to settling near large reservoirs. Here she feels more than comfortable, because at any time she can go hunting. Thus the Osprey prefers to lead a lonely way of life, only occasionally forming strong tandems. Because of this, to see the "loving" pairs of birds is possible only during mating.

In the hunt for a favorite game, the ogre is greatly aided by excellent eyesight. Thanks to him, the bird is able to notice the fish, being high in the sky. For example, an experienced predator can detect a carp floating underwater from a distance of 40 meters. In addition, he ignores the distortion that the object gives water, because of the refraction of light on its surface.

After the skopec chooses his victim, he quickly parries down. In the water, he enters his paws forward, using them as a harpoon. Often fish do not have time to react in time, and it turns out in the sharp claws of a predator. And from them it will not be able to get out any more, since the skupec grabs its prey from both sides, as if squeezing it in a vice.

Reproduction and marriage games of birds

Skopets is a very amazing bird. Accustomed to living alone, she is still very kind to family ties. Having found its second half, the Osprey forms a monogamous pair, which remains indestructible throughout the life of the bird. And it can only be changed by the death of one of the partners.

As for the mating season, in migratory birds it begins in April-May, and in sedentary birds - in February-March. In this case, the males come first to the nest, thereby showing the ladies that they have not forgotten about them. If the chevalier does not yet have an established pair, then he starts looking for free females, flirting with them.

The incubation of eggs takes about 4-5 weeks. All this time the male takes care of his family, bringing food to the nest and guarding him from enemies. And only after two months, when the chicks learn to fly, he leaves his house.

Skopets: importance for the ecosystem and human

Despite the fact that the skopec eats a lot of fish, it does not cause significant damage to fish farms. But the bird itself suffers greatly from the action of man. The use of pesticides and herbicides adversely affects the predator population. For example, in some agrarian regions, she completely ceased to settle.

Therefore today many environmental organizations have taken under their care the Skopts. In particular, the Red Book protects the bird on the territory of the Russian Federation. This species is also protected by a resolution adopted by the Convention on International Trade.