Monday, February 9, 2009

Weaponry

An osprey can position it's toes two different ways. When the outer toe is swiveled back like this it's known as a zygodactyl arrangement creating a perfect 4 pointed spread. The size of this claw is massive in relation to the body size and contributes to the high success rate of this unique bird getting 4 of 5 strikes. The toes have special little spikes on pads that help hold a slippery fish. Working on critical details such as this poses a challenge on the heavy texture as seen in this close up.

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