Pandionidae - Osprey

There is one species in this family, the osprey (Pandion haliaetus). The osprey is a large bird of prey found on every continent, except Antarctica.

It is found on lakes, rivers, and seacoasts where there is shallow water and plenty of fish.

When it locates a fish, it dives feet-first with its talons outstretched straight into the water and grabs its prey. It takes off from the water and adjusts the fish in its talons so the fish is facing headfirst. This makes the fish more aerodynamic and easier to carry. The osprey then flies to a perch to eat its catch.

Did You Know?

The osprey is a large bird of prey found on every continent, except Antarctica.
The osprey is a large bird of prey found on every continent, except Antarctica.

World Status Key

Status and range is taken from IUCN Redlist

Least Concern
Near Threatened
Vulnerable
Endangered
Critically Endangered
Extinct in the Wild
Extinct
Not Enough Data

U.S. Status Key

Status taken from US Fish and Wildlife

Threatened in US
Endangered in US
Introduced

NH Status Key

Status taken from NH Fish and Game

Threatened in NH
Endangered in NH
Breeds in NH (birds)

Location Key

Africa
Asia
Australia/Oceania
Europe
North/Central America
south america alt
South America

New Hampshire Species

Osprey - Pandion haliaetusLeast ConcernNorth/Central AmericaSouth AmericaEuropeAsiaAfricaAustralia/Oceania

Other Species Around the World

No animals found.

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