How do ospreys hunt?

northern migrant (carolinensis) Osprey perched, Bayamón, Puerto Rico, 05 May 2009 Generally hunts on the wing over open water -- flaps or glides, usually 10–40 m high. When fishing offshore, may climb to 200 m to locate schools and then drop down to begin hunting (Prevost 1982). read more

Osprey eggs are a creamy color with brownish-red spots. The female sits on the eggs most of the time, leaving only to fish, at which point the male will take over. After hatching, the male will do all the fishing for about six weeks to feed the hungry, growing chicks. read more

Whatever the location, Osprey nesting habitat must include an adequate supply of accessible fish within a maximum of about 12 miles of the nest; open, usually elevated nest sites free from predatory mammals such as raccoons, and a long enough ice-free season to allow the young to fledge. read more

Ospreys hunt by diving to the water's surface from some 30 to 100 feet up. They have gripping pads on their feet to help them pluck fish from the water with their curved claws and carry them for great distances. read more