Key information
Seen in flight from below the osprey has white or slightly mottled underparts. The long wings are angled, bending at the 'wrist' which has a black patch contrasting with the white wing linings and at a distance it could be mistaken for a large gull.
This spectacular fish-eating bird of prey is an Amber List species because of its historical decline (due to illegal killing) and low breeding numbers. They are listed as a Schedule 1 species on The Wildlife and Countryside Act.
What they eat:
Fish.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 52-60cm
- Wingspan:
- 145-170cm
- Weight:
- 1.2-2kg
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 200-250 pairs
Identifying features:
Osprey
