Osprey

Though close to extinction in the 1950's to 1970's due to the use of DDT and it's derivatives, the majestic Osprey is once again flourishing in North America and in 1999 was moved from "threatened" to a species of "critical concern" on the National endangered species list. Osprey's are currently found as far North as Alaska and Quebec in the summer months, in southern climes from Florida to South America during the winter months, and dotting the coast lines in between during the summer breeding season.

A truly impressive bird, the Osprey boasts a wing span of 4-6 feet and a length of 22-25 inches. The coloring of the male and female are similar though the female can be up to 1/3 larger. Distinguishing characteristics of the Osprey include: dark brown plumage on the back and upper side of the wings, mostly white breasted with some speckling, and a white crown and forehead with a dark streak through the eyes.

Osprey pairs mate for life, though they will often take a new mate if one of the pair dies. Their first breeding season is in the third year of their 15-20 year life span and an adult pair will often return to the fledging grounds of the male to build their large nest. Nests are found in close proximity to shallow fresh and salt water, are comprised of sticks, lined with moss, grass and mud, and can be up to ten feet deep. Often a pair of Osprey will return to the same nest year after year adding to the structure and repairing any damage done in their absence.

Male and female Osprey work as a team to care for their eggs. The female lays one to four eggs per year (usually three) with larger broods occurring as she becomes a more experienced mom. With the exception of a few hours every morning, the female warms the eggs for the entire 28 - 35 day incubation period. Each morning the male will warm the eggs while the female stretches her wings and thoroughly preens herself. The male spends the incubation period and the 8 weeks before the fledglings leave the nest hunting for fish and feeding his brood.

The Osprey's diet consists solely of fish and they have evolved into very effective hunters with one out of every four dives producing a fish. Osprey dive, feet first, with their impressive talons extended, into the water to catch fish that are either swimming near the surface, or in shallow water.

top of page

| Orenda | Wildlife | Land | Trust |