"The osprey or even more especially the western osprey (Pandion haliaetus)-- likewise called sea hawk, river hawk, and also fish hawk-- is a diurnal, fish-eating bird of prey with a multicultural range. It is a large raptor, getting to more than 60 cm (24 in) in length as well as 180 cm (71 in) throughout the wings. It is brown on the upperparts and also primarily greyish on the head and also underparts.

The osprey tolerates a variety of environments, nesting in any type of place near a body of water supplying an ample food supply. It is found on all continents other than Antarctica, although in South America it happens just as a non-breeding traveler.

As its various other typical names suggest, the osprey's diet regimen is composed practically specifically of fish. It has specialised physical attributes and also shows distinct behavior to aid in searching as well as catching victim. As a result of these unique features, it has been given its very own taxonomic genus, Pandion as well as family, Pandionidae. 3 subspecies are usually identified; one of the previous subspecies, cristatus, has recently been provided complete types condition and is referred to as the eastern osprey. "