Osprey
NameOsprey
Common NameOsprey
Scientific NamePandion haliaetus
FamilyPandionidae
Wingspan (cm)157.5
Length (cm)58
Weight (g)1450
Plumage DetailsAdult Ospreys have dark brown upperparts, a white head with a prominent dark brown stripe extending from the beak through the eye to the back of the neck, and pure white underparts. The underside of the wings is mostly white with dark carpal patches and flight feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of a series of sharp, whistling chirps, often described as 'chew-chew-chew' or 'kew-kew-kew', especially around the nest or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, lakes, rivers, estuaries, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNearly cosmopolitan, Ospreys are found on all continents except Antarctica. They are typically found near freshwater or saltwater bodies, including coasts, lakes, rivers, and estuaries, where fish are abundant.
Identifying Featureswhite head with dark eye stripe, dark brown upperparts, white underparts, large raptor, specialized fish-eater, m-shaped wing profile in flight
Description
The Osprey is a large raptor specializing in a diet of fish, often seen soaring over water bodies. It has a distinctive white head with a broad dark stripe through the eye, and dark brown upperparts contrasting with white underparts.
