Osprey

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Osprey Photo

Birders in the San Francisco Bay area are fortunate if they get a glimpse (or photo) of an Osprey. The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory characterizes Osprey sightings around San Francisco Bay as "occasional."

The Osprey is a raptor with a diet that consists primarily of fish. Large, rounded talons allow the Osprey to effectively catch and grasp the fish they've hunted. They hover over the water, then plunge for their prey.

Identifying characteristics:

• Size: 22 inches | Wingspan: 54 inches
• Dark brown/black back, black wings
• White throat, breast and belly
• Short, hooked beak

As with many raptors, Osprey reproduction and population were damaged in part by the use of DDT. The Osprey is still endangered and recovering in some areas.

^{Photo © Mike Baird
Creative Commons
Sources: U.S. Geological Survey | Cornell Lab of Ornithology}