Frequently seen perched around the trees of the Breeding Marsh, or flying high over Gatorland’s main lake, the Osprey can easily be identified by its white chest and face, brown back and wings, and black eye stripe. Found on every continent except Antarctica, this large raptor feeds primarily on fish, and will hover over the water high above its prey before diving down and landing feet first. Grasping the fish tightly in its talons, the Osprey will fly to a perch or nest and proceed to eat its meal, usually starting at the head of the fish.

Osprey numbers declined dramatically in the 1950-1970s, primarily due to eggshell thinning and pesticide poisoning from DDT. After use of the pesticide was banned, Osprey numbers began to rebound, although they are still listed as threatened in some states. Ospreys are quite numerous in Florida, with some of the best viewing areas in the Indian River Lagoon. Ospreys readily build their nests on man made structures, such as channel markers, and telephone pole platforms designed specifically for their use.

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