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 and pure white underparts. Their head is white with a prominent broad, dark stripe extending from the beak through the eye to the back of the neck. The tail is barred, and the underside of the wings shows dark carpal patches and barred flight feathers.
Vocalization / CallOspreys typically emit a series of sharp, whistling calls, often described as 'cheep-cheep' or 'kyew-kyew-kyew'. They also have a more urgent alarm call.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal areas, estuaries, rivers, lakes, reservoirs, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Osprey has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, breeding in temperate and tropical regions across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in warmer southern regions, while tropical populations are largely resident.
Identifying FeaturesLarge raptor, Dark brown back and white belly, White head with a prominent dark eye stripe, M-shaped wing profile in flight, Specialized fish-eating behavior (plunging into water), Long, narrow wings
Description
The Osprey is a large, fish-eating raptor with a distinctive appearance. It is known for its spectacular hunting technique, plunging feet-first into water to catch fish. These birds often build large stick nests on tall structures or trees near water.
