Osprey \ Pandion haliaetus **
The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a large, striking bird of prey, easily recognized by its white underparts, dark brown back, and distinctive black eye-stripe that runs across its white head. Found near coastlines, rivers, and lakes across much of the world, the Osprey is specialized for hunting fish, which make up nearly its entire diet. With its keen eyesight and powerful talons, it hovers over water before diving feet-first to snatch fish from just below the surface. Ospreys build large, sturdy nests of sticks, often in high locations such as trees, cliffs, or even man-made structures like telephone poles. Known for their incredible migratory journeys, Ospreys travel vast distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Their adaptability and fishing prowess make them a symbol of healthy aquatic ecosystems.
| NOT EVALUATED | DATA DEFICIENT | LEAST CONCERN** | NEAR THREATENED | VULNERABLE | ENDANGERED | CRITICALLY ENDANGERED | EXTINCT IN THE WILD | EXTINCT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NE | DD | LC | NT | VU | EN | CR | EW | EX |

