Osprey
Description: Ospreys are large birds, standing 21 to 24 inches tall and having a wing span of up to approximately 6 feet. They are dark brown above and white below. The head is white with dark speckles on the crown and a dark brown line through the eye and on the side of the face. The osprey flies with wings arched and a black spot is apparent at the bend of each wing. It is the only raptor that actually plunges into the water, entering feet first to catch fish with its talons. The soles of the feet have sharp, spiny projections, an adaptation that allows a firm grip on slippery fish.
Average Size:
Length: 21 to 24 in.
Wingspan: 59 to 72 in.
Weight: 2.2 to 3.9 pounds.
Females are somewhat
larger than males.
Food: Fish
Breeding: Monogamous. Breeding season early March to May. The incubation period for the 2 to 4 eggs is 4 to 5 weeks.