The Osprey

Description :

The Osprey is a diurnal raptor with a wingspan of 145–170 cm and a body length of 50–60 cm. Solitary by nature, it typically lives around 20 years. Adults weigh between 1 and 2 kg, with females larger than males. Females also have dark streaks on their chests, which are absent or faint in males.

Its morphology is specialized for catching fish: its legs are bare, the undersides of its toes have short spines, and its talons are strongly curved and equal in length. These adaptations reflect its fish-based diet and influence both sedentary and migratory behavior.

True to its name, the Osprey employs a distinctive fishing method: it dives shallowly and projects its talons forward at the last moment to catch prey. Its attack angle is usually around 45° to vertical but can sometimes be nearly horizontal. In such cases, it may skim the water surface to seize the fish or capture it while flying just above the water.

Habitat :

The Osprey is one of the few raptors found on all continents except Antarctica. Nests are built from branches and placed high in large trees, on utility poles, or on rocky outcrops. In predator-free areas like small islets, nests can also be on the ground. It favors locations where water is rich in fish.

Threats :

Because its diet consists mainly of fish, the species has been heavily impacted by persecution from fishermen and fish farmers. Another ongoing threat is pesticide use. In the 1950s and 1960s, the widespread use of the potent insecticide DDT severely affected the population.

Mortality among juveniles is high: about 50% die during their first year. Of a typical clutch of 2–4 eggs, only the two oldest chicks fledge after 7–8 weeks, while the younger, smaller, and weaker chicks usually starve before reaching this age.