AMERICAN OSPREY; FISH HAWK 
364. Pandion halietus carolinensis. 23 in. 
Real old birds have the head whiter, and less white 
edging to the back feathers, than do the young. Feet 
very strong, and very hard and rough, perfectly “adapted 
to grasping slippery fish; outer toe can be used equally as 
well, either in front or behind, when perching or grasp- 
ing their prey. Their food is entirely of fish, which 
they catch themselves, by plunging after it, hovering in 
the air a few seconds while watching the fish, prepara- 
tory to diving upon it. They are alw ays found about 
water and are very numerous on the seacoasts, where 
twenty or more may frequently be seen at a time. They 
are protected by law in some states, and by public sen- 
timent in most others. 
Notes.—A loud, tremulous, piercing whistle. 
Nest.—Usually in trees; large and bulky, of sticks; 
sometimes on the ground, telegraph poles, chimneys, 
ete. Eggs creamy buff, blotched with rich brown. (2.40 
x 1.80). 
Range.—Breeds from the Gulf to Labrador and Alas- 22) 
ka; winters in the southern half of the U. 8. 
