Osprey

Ospreys have an almost worldwide distribution, breeding or wintering on every continent except Antarctica. They occur around lakes, rivers, reservoirs, wetlands, estuaries, and marine coasts wherever accessible fish and suitable nest supports coincide. Adults are 55–58 centimetres long and have a wingspan of 145–170 centimetres. Their long wings bend conspicuously at the wrist. White underparts contrast with a dark-brown back, wrist patches, chest markings, and a stripe through each eye; the feet are pale blue-gray (Animal Diversity Web).

Fish constitute at least 99 percent of osprey prey. These adaptable hunters take whichever species are readily available near the surface of deep water or within shallow water, although only a few fish species may dominate locally. Ospreys locate prey from the air, plunge feet-first, and use powerful toes and specialized soles to retain slippery captures. They breed seasonally and lay eggs that produce helpless young. Adults may migrate long distances between breeding and wintering waters, while some populations remain resident (Animal Diversity Web).