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Osprey

Pandion haliaetus ORDER: FALCONIFORMES FAMILY: ACCIPITRIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Osprey Photo

© William L. Newton / CLO

One of the largest birds of prey in North America, the Osprey eats almost exclusively fish. It is one of the most widespread birds in the world, found on all continents except Antarctica.

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Appearance

Hawks
Hawks
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Large raptor.
  • White breast and belly.
  • Black back and wings.
  • Long wings, held with wingtips angled slightly backwards.
  • Dark eyestripe.
  • Crown and forehead white.

Immature Description

Juvenile similar to adult, but with whitish scaling on back feathers, fewer markings on chest, and orange eyes.

Range Map Help

Osprey Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

  • Adult
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    Adult
    • © William L. Newton / CLO, Sanibel Island, Florida, March 2000
  • Adult with fish
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    Adult with fish
    • © William L. Newton / CLO, Ding Darling NWR, Florida
  • Adult with fish
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    Adult with fish
    • © William L. Newton / CLO, Sanibel Island, Florida
  • Adult
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    Adult
    • Spiny pads on feet and reversible toe let Ospreys carry fish securely
    • © William L. Newton / CLO
  • Adult female (left) with nestlings
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    Adult female (left) with nestlings
    • © William L. Newton / CLO, Sanibel Island, Florida

Similar Species

  • Bald Eagle is larger, has a dark chest and underside, yellow legs, and flies with its broad wings held flat.