Ospray, an unclean bird, which has been identified with the haliaëtus or sea-eagle. Species of this bird occur in Europe, Asia, Africa, America, and Australia.
Mr. Macgillivray describes 'its savage scream of anger when any one approaches the neighborhood of its nest, its intimidating gestures, and even its attempts to molest individuals who have ventured among its native crags.'
Mr. Selby, respecting the ospray, observes, 'It is strictly piscivorous, and is found only in the vicinity of lakes, rivers, or such pools as abound with fish. It is a powerful bird, often weighing five pounds; the limbs are very muscular in proportion to its general dimensions; its feet are admirably adapted for retaining firm hold of its slippery prey.' Mr. Montagu remarks, 'Its principal food is fish, which it often catches with great dexterity, by pouncing upon them with vast rapidity, and carrying them off in its talons.