Facts, Information, Scientific Name of Osprey
Let us learn about the Bird that is feisty as they hunt during their flight but also are romantic singers.
Sharp vision, Oily Feathers, and Sharp Feet,
Makes me a Piscivore, as Fish is my meat.
(Piscivore is Fish-eating Feeding habit)
Name– Osprey, Sea Hawk, Fish Hawk, River Hawk.
Scientific Name– Pandion Haliaetus
Size– 66cm
Habitat & Distribution.
Where there is availability of Fish in Fresh, Marine or Brackish waters dwells the Prey Bird called ‘Osprey’ also known as Fish hawks in the Tropical and Temperate regions of the world. Osprey is migratory and travels to Indian Subcontinent or Southeast Asia from Russia in harsh winters.
How does Osprey catch a Fish and how well the Bird is adapted to it?
Osprey is the ‘Piscivorous’ Bird. It means it depends mostly on Fish for food. To catch fish under Water, Osprey has a well-adapted vision that helps them figure out the distorted image that appears in the form of Refraction, of Fish under Water. Once the bird, figures out the location of the fish, it starts dipping its feet underwater surface and submerging wholly underwater; if required, to catch the fish.
This Brown-streaked Bird with White underparts, Black bill and golden brown Iris (Eyes) also feed on Rodents, Hares, mammals, Snakes, Turtles, etc.
There is a ‘Nictitating Membrane’ present in Bird’s eye. It is an Eyelid that is transparent and shut across the eyes, preventing the eyes from absorbing excess moisture. But after an underwater dive, the bird is not just adapted to Vision but also the ‘Reversible feet’, which are two in front and two in back. The toes have scales that are placed backwards to maintain a grip for a caught fish. There is an Oil gland called ‘ Preen oil’ present in plumage, which helps birds not get soaked in water.
Reproduction
January to May is the mating season. The Male birds display Flight moves along with the Fish caught on toes or the nesting material.
After Courtship, the Male gathers the nesting material and helps to break it. The female is the one who designs the nest. The Nest is known as an ‘Eyrie’ nest, which is also known as a Platform nest. It is a 50cm-60cm deep nest.
The female lays 2-3 eggs and Incubates them for 37 days. After hatching, the Female looks after the brood and feeds them. Males on the other hand have the responsibility to hunt fish and provide it to the nestlings and females.
Once the Chicks are ready to fledge, both parents look after them for almost 2 months and help with Food provision.
Life Cycle and Ecological Significance.
Where there is Osprey, there is a Pollution free Water Habitat. Osprey feeds on Fishes in water bodies that are not contaminated in any way. Ospreys are delicate to contamination. Being a Piscivore, the bird plays important role in maintaining the ecosystem. Osprey lives, for an average of 7-10 years.
Also See – Common Nightingale