Known locally as the "fish hawk", Ospreys are strongly
associated with water, as their diet is almost exclusively fish. Much
better fishers than their larger cousin, in many areas Bald Eagles obtain much
of their food by harassing Ospreys and stealing their prey. Ospreys were
nearly decimated by the effects of DDT and other pesticides by the middle of the
20th century, but have strongly rebounded over the past few decades.
Habitat: Can
be found near many aquatic habitats, both fresh- and salt-water. More
common around coastlines, but also can be found near large rivers and lakes.
Diet: Nearly an exclusive diet of fish. Will rarely feed
on small birds, rodents, snakes, and lizards.
Behavior: Hunts by flying slowly over water,
stopping to hover when prey is spotted, and plunging into the water feet
first to catch the fish in its talons. In courtship, pairs can often
be seen circling together high in the sky.
Nesting: May and June
Migration: Summers throughout much of Canada, Alaska, and locally in the western U.S., the
Great Lakes region, and near U.S. coastlines. Nearly all birds migrate in
the fall, with the exception of those in Florida and along the Gulf Coast.
Similar Species: Generally distinctive.
Status: Due to eggshell thinning caused by DDT and
other pesticides, the Osprey was seriously endangered by the middle of the
20th century. With the banning of DDT, the Osprey has recovered in numbers
and range in North America.
South Dakota "Hotspot": Osprey have nested below
Pactola Dam in the Black Hills in recent years. They can often be
found below Missouri River Dams as they migrate in the fall. I've
particularly had good luck finding multiple birds below Gavin's Point Dam in
the mid- to late-fall.
2)
Cornell University's "All About Birds - Osprey"
3)
eNature.com:
Osprey
Photo Information: August 25th, 2004 -- Yellowstone National Park, Canyon Area
-- Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution Osprey photos.
