Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), the second most widely distributed raptor

Scientific name: Pandion haliaetus
Common name (english): Osprey
Common name (spanish): Guincho, Guaraguao de Mar

The Osprey, or fish eagle, is a worldwide known diurnal bird of prey. In Cuba, it is a permanent and transient resident.

The osprey’s diet is composed exclusively of fish. It possesses in that matter specialized physical characteristics to excel in the hunt and the capture of fishes. Its toes are equal length. With the owls they are the only raptors with a reversible outer toe which allow them to catch slippery prey with two toes on the front and back.

It is a large bird, between 55 and 60cm with a wingspan of 150cm, dark brown above and white below. The under wings are black on wrists and tips. The head is mainly white with brown stripes around yellow eyes.

In Cuba, its habitat can be anywhere close to shallow waters or basins.