What is an "osprey"?

An osprey, also known as the sea hawk or fish eagle, is a remarkable bird of prey with distinct adaptations for hunting and living near water. The osprey is a formidable aerial predator with a wingspan of up to six feet. Its plumage is predominantly brown, with a white head and underparts, which contrast beautifully against the sky. One of the osprey's notable features is its reversible outer toe, allowing it to grasp and carry fish with exceptional dexterity. Found on every continent except Antarctica, ospreys are commonly seen near bodies of water, where they build large stick nests on platforms, including trees, cliffs, or man-made structures. These birds are highly skilled fish hunters, diving into the water from heights of up to 100 feet to catch their prey.