Osprey
Pandion haliaetus (Linnaeus)

Identification: It is the size of a small eagle measuring about 55-58 cm. in length. It has a white crown, nape and underside. There is a dark band passing through the eyes. The back is almost black. The undersides of the toes have pads with a rough sandpaper-like surface, which helps it to maintain a firm grip on its slippery prey.

Habitat: Ospreys are purely aquatic birds. They can be seen singly or in pairs along the seacoasts, lagoons, estuaries, rivers, and perched on dead trees. They can be hazardous to aircrafts.

Distribution: It is a winter visitor to Sindh, Balochistan and Punjab.

Breeding: It breeds chiefly in the Himalayas; in March and April and lays 2 - 3 eggs. In rare cases it may also lay 4 eggs.

Food: It feeds exclusively on fish.

Status: Common