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The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), also known as the Fish Hawk, is a large raptor belonging to the family Pandionidae. Found on every continent except Antarctica, it is a cosmopolitan species that thrives near freshwater lakes, rivers, coastal estuaries, and reservoirs—where fish, its primary prey, are abundant.

The Osprey is easily recognizable by its contrasting plumage and distinctive flight silhouette. It has dark brown upperparts, white underparts, and a white head with a bold dark eye-stripe. Its long, narrow wings have a characteristic kink that gives them an M-shape in flight. Unlike many raptors, the Osprey's outer toes are reversible, allowing it to grasp slippery fish with two toes in front and two behind—a highly specialized adaptation for hunting.

An expert angler, the Osprey hunts by soaring over water and then diving feet-first to snatch fish just below the surface. Its sharp talons and spiny foot pads provide a firm grip, and it often aligns the fish head-first to reduce air resistance while flying.

Ospreys are generally monogamous and return to the same nesting site year after year. Nests are large platforms made of sticks, typically built on tall trees, cliffs, or artificial structures like poles and towers. Both parents participate in nest building, incubation, and chick rearing.

In India, Ospreys are winter visitors, especially to large inland water bodies and coastal regions. They are solitary during feeding but may be seen in proximity to other Ospreys during migration or in rich feeding grounds.

Once threatened by pesticide use, particularly DDT, global Osprey populations have made a significant recovery following conservation efforts. The species is currently listed as Least Concern, though habitat disturbance and water pollution remain concerns.

The Osprey stands as a symbol of healthy aquatic ecosystems and reflects the success of targeted conservation strategies worldwide.
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© Photography by Ambuj Gupta
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