osprey

The osprey, Pandion haliaetus, is a diurnal bird of prey specially adapted for fishing. It has a worldwide distribution near rivers, lakes, coastlines, and wetlands across most continents, excluding Antarctica and many arid regions. It is the sole living species of the genus Pandion and is placed in its own family, Pandionidae.

Adults are medium to large raptors with dark brown upperparts, pale underparts, and a distinctive dark eye stripe. They have long, broad wings and a rounded tail, and their wingspan typically measures around 1.5 meters. Males and females look alike, though females are generally larger. Immature ospreys have lighter plumage with more mottling and lack the full eye stripe until their first molts.

Ospreys almost exclusively eat fish. They hunt by perching or hovering over water and then diving feet first to grasp fish with their talons. The front toes have sharp, reversible digits that help grip slippery prey, and their outer toe can be moved to enable a secure grip with two toes in front and two behind. Prey is often carried head-first to reduce drag during flight.

Nesting takes place near water in tall trees, cliffs, or on human-made structures. Nests are large stick platforms that may be reused for many years. A typical clutch consists of 2–4 eggs, incubated for about 35 days. Chicks fledge after roughly 6–8 weeks, and both parents participate in feeding and care.

Conservation status is generally Least Concern, with widespread populations. Local declines have occurred due to habitat loss, electrocution on power lines, and historical pesticide exposure, but many regions have shown recovery in recent decades.