Osprey
Pandion haliaetus
- Where
- Coastal regions worldwide (North America, Europe, Africa, Australia)
- Habitat
- Near coastal waterways, estuaries, and large lakes
- Diet
- Almost exclusively fish (salmon, trout, catfish)
- Size
- 23-27 inches (58-69 cm) long with 5-foot wingspan
- Lifespan
- 10-20 years in wild, up to 30 years in captivity
- Conservation
- Protected by Migratory Bird Treaty Act; populations declining due to lead poisoning, habitat loss, and pesticide contamination
Fun Facts
- Ospreys are expert fishers - they catch about 1.4 pounds of fish per meal!
- They have special reversible outer toes that help grip slippery fish.
- Osprey nests can weigh over 2,000 pounds with sticks and debris.
Learn More
Ospreys have distinctive brown back and white belly feathers.
Their wings are long and narrow for soaring and diving.
They have exceptional vision - can spot fish from 1-3 feet underwater.