Osprey a common species found in any coast of Oman

MUSCAT: Oman is home to hundreds of species of birds. Some of them are residents while others are migrants. According to official statistics, “there are 535 species of birds in the Sultanate of Oman. Migratory birds represent 80 per cent or more than 400 species, while 20 per cent are residents, which remain in the country throughout the year”.

Prominent among residents are Osprey, which is often seen in Daymaniyat, Bandar Al Khairan, Qurayat, Sur, Masirah Island and Dhofar. This bird has several nicknames including sea hawk and fish eagle.

Globally, Ospreys nest in a wide variety of locations, from Alaska to New England, Montana to Mexico, Carolina to California. Their habitat includes almost any expanse of shallow, fish-filled water, including rivers, lakes, reservoirs, lagoons, swamps, and marshes. Whatever the location, Osprey nesting habitat must include an adequate supply of fish within a maximum of about 12 miles of the nest. They build nests in elevated areas to protect the eggs from predators such as raccoons during the ice-free season, which allow young birds’ wing feathers to grow long enough for flight.

Environmental research indicates that the Osprey is the only hawk that eats almost exclusively live fish. In North America, more than 80 species of live fresh- and saltwater fish account for 99 per cent of the Osprey’s diet. Captured fish usually measure about 6–13 inches in length and weigh one-third to two-thirds of a pound. The largest catch on record weighed about 2.5 pounds. On very rare occasions, Ospreys have been observed feeding on fish carcasses or on birds, snakes, voles, squirrels, muskrats, and salamanders. Ospreys probably get most of the water they need from the flesh of their prey, although there are reports of adults drinking on hot days.

Environmental studies mention that this bird is "unable to dive to more than about three feet below the water's surface, Ospreys gravitate towards shallow fishing grounds, frequenting deep water only where fish school near the surface".

One of the most important facts monitored by environmental studies is that the Osprey may “log more than 160,000 migration miles during its 15-20 year life."

Ospreys are excellent anglers. Over several studies, Ospreys caught fish on at least 1 in every 4 dives, with success rates sometimes as high as 70 per cent. The average time they spent hunting before making a catch was about 12 minutes — something to think about next time you throw your line in the water.

Several studies in Oman helped to obtain new information and data that are related to the bird’s behaviour. A lot of photographers are keen to document Osprey’s life. “This task takes plenty of time. We are attempting to provide the specialists with new images for each bird in several sites and different habitats. This makes us proud and happy as we are participating in this national project,” some photographers told the Observer.