Where Osprey Call Home

Osprey are not limited to Montana or even our corner of the world. These so-called Sea Hawks make their homes in a variety of habitats across North America, from coastal regions to inland lakes and rivers. Some birds even migrate to the Carribean, and Central and South America.

Identification Made Easy

Identifying Osprey is an adventure in itself! These birds have distinctive features:

• Color: Osprey exhibit striking contrast with their predominantly white heads and bodies, complemented by dark brown feathers on their wings and backs.
• Beak: Their distinctive hooked beaks are precision instruments, designed for snatching fish.
• Talons: Equipped with powerful talons, Osprey can plunge into water to grasp their aquatic prey.

Mistaken Identity: Bald Eagles vs. Osprey

Osprey are often confused with bald eagles. Here are ways to tell the difference:

• Osprey are smaller than bald eagles.
• Adult eagles have a clean white tail and dark body, whereas osprey have a banded tail and a white body.
• Both birds have a white head, though an osprey's includes a broad brown stripe through the eye.
• Osprey have black beaks, whereas a bald eagle's beak is yellow

Dining Habits of Osprey

These birds are true piscivores, dining primarily on fish. They are masterful fishermen, soaring high above the water, spotting their prey with keen eyesight, and making dramatic dives to capture their meal.

The Unique Osprey

Osprey are truly unique in the avian world because their:

• Specialized hunting techniques set them apart as masters of the sky and water.
• Distinctive markings make them stand out in flight.
• Ability to coexist alongside the majestic bald eagle showcases the diversity of the avian kingdom.

Next: Who’s the most successful hunter at Glen Lake Rotary Park? >>