Osprey (also known as Fish Hawk, River Hawk, or Sea Hawk)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Pandionidae, Genus: Pandion, Species: Pandion haliaetus
Family: Pandionidae (Ospreys)
- Shape
- Generally symmetrical to slightly asymmetrical; broad with a rounded tip and a slightly curved outline characteristic of a secondary wing feather.
- Size
- Estimated at 7-9 inches (18-23 cm) in length. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of an adult Osprey, which typically range between 6 and 10 inches depending on position.
- Rarity
- Common in appropriate aquatic habitats during the breeding season; specialized but widespread.
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Description
This is a secondary wing feather from an Osprey, a large, unique raptor with a 5-foot wingspan. The bird is white below with a dark brown back and a characteristic dark stripe through the eye. They are famous for their spectacular plunging dives to catch fish.
Colour & Pattern
Distinctive dark chocolate brown on the distal (top) half, transitioning into a pale white or cream base. There is evidence of dark barring/banding on the inner vane portion, which is a diagnostic trait for Osprey plumage.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous structure throughout most of the vane for flight efficiency; plumulaceous (downy) at the very base (calamus area). The barbs appear stiff and water-resistant.
Texture & Surface
Dense, stiff, and somewhat oily to the touch. Ospreys have specialized preen oil that makes their feathers more water-resistant than most other raptors, given their diving hunting style.
Key Features
Broad shape, dark brown tip transitioning to a white base with dark transverse barring on the inner vane, and a thick white rachis.
Habitat
Found near large bodies of water including lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and coastal estuaries. In Long Prairie, MN, they favor the numerous glacial lakes and river systems.
Geographic Range
Cosmopolitan distribution. In Minnesota, they are summer residents that migrate to Central and South America for the winter months.
Ecological Role
Apex predator of aquatic ecosystems. They serve as excellent bio-indicators for environmental toxins like mercury and historical DDT levels.
Similar Species
Bald Eagle (immature) feathers are larger and usually lack the neat white-to-brown transition. Red-tailed Hawk feathers have different banding and a more reddish/buff tone.
Interesting Facts
Ospreys are the only raptors that dive completely underwater to catch fish. Their outer toes are reversible, allowing them to grasp fish with two toes forward and two toes back for a better grip.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The feather shows significant 'zipper' separation of the barbs (venting), likely due to contact with water or handling. No significant parasitic damage is visible.
Notes
Long prairie mn,near a osprey’s nest