Osprey

Description:

The Osprey is a large, water-dependent bird of prey, distinctive in flight and when perched. Despite its wing-span of up to 1.7 m, it is noticeably smaller than the White-bellied Sea-eagle. In flight it can be recognised by its distinctly bowed wings that are dark brown above, and barred underneath, and with white underwing coverts. Perched, the upperparts are dark brown and the underparts are white. The female has a dark streaky collar. The head is mainly white with a blackish stripe through the eye.

Habitat:

Distribution Ospreys are found right around the Australian coast line, except for Victoria and Tasmania. They are common around the northern coast, especially on rocky shorelines, islands and reefs. The species is uncommon to rare or absent from closely settled parts of south-eastern Australia. There are a handful of records from inland areas. Habitat and ecology Favour coastal areas, especially the mouths of large rivers, lagoons and lakes. Feed on fish over clear, open water. Breed from July to September in NSW. Nests are made high up in dead trees or in dead crowns of live trees, usually within one kilometre of the sea. . Incubation of 2-3 eggs, usually by the female, is about 40 days. Female remains with young almost until they fly, usually after about nine weeks in the nest.