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Osprey In Flight

The osprey is a large raptor, reaching more than 60 cm (24 in) in length and 180 cm (71 in) across the wings. The Osprey's diet consists almost exclusively of fish. and the typical lifespan is 7–10 years, athough some can age to 20–25 years. The osprey is the provincial bird of Nova Scotia, Canada

Osprey Habitats

The Osprey tolerates a wide variety of habitats, nesting in any location near a body of water providing an adequate food supply. It is found on all continents except Antarctica. The osprey, commonly known as the fish hawk, always lives near various bodies of water mainly because they specialize in hunting fish. In fact, they have modified talons to get a quick and firm grasp on the slippery fish.

Osprey Breeding Habits

The Osprey breeds by freshwater lakes, and sometimes on coastal brackish waters. During the breeding season they usually return to their previous nest. The nests are usually situated high in the trees, telephone poles, radar towers and occasionally on the ground. The basketlike nests are made entirely of sticks.

The adults successfully raise 2 to 3 young a season. Ospreys usually mate for life.

Environmental Concerns For Ospreys

Osprey population was considerably high all along the North American Atlantic Coast. Their population was diminished by the use of pesticides in their food, DDT and other highly toxic pesticides. Like the eagles, the osprey population rebounded with the ban of DDT in the United States.

Other Resources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osprey
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/osprey/

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