Osprey

A migratory raptor of Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean

Osprey in Flight

Osprey

(Pandion haliaetus)

Águila pescadora, Gavilán pescador, Guincho

Identification: Large, fish-eating raptor with long, crooked wings. Dark brown-back with white chest and belly, white head with a brown eye stripe and dark banded, two-toned wings.

Migratory behavior: Typically migrates alone or in small flocks (2-4 individuals). However, larger groups form in the Caribbean, especially before flying over water.

Remarks: The Caribbean Osprey (Pandion haliaetus ridgwayi) is non-migratory and breeds in the keys and coastal areas of Belize, Cuba, and Hispaniola and is a vagrant in Puerto Rico.