Details
Pandion haliaetus
The osprey is a fish-eating raptor with a near-global association with water. It is known for gripping fish in its talons and carrying them head-first through the air.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It lives near coasts, lakes, large rivers, and wetlands with open water and abundant fish. Nests are placed on trees, ledges, or human structures with clear views.
Length is 50-66 cm and weight 1.1-2 kg. The upperparts are brown, the underparts white, and a dark eye stripe marks the head; the long wings look kinked at the wrist.
Diurnal pairs defend nest areas during breeding. Ospreys hover over water, then plunge feet-first after fish.
A carnivore specialized on fish, it rarely relies on other prey. Spiny foot pads and a reversible outer toe help secure slippery catches.
Pairs build large stick nests and may reuse the same site for years. While the female incubates, the male often provides most of the fish.
It is listed as Least Concern. Because its history includes sensitivity to water pollution, healthy fish stocks and secure nest sites remain important.
