These vultures are primarily carrion feeders which they can smell from considerable distances. Ospreys are the sole member of this family. They are distributed nearly worldwide. The Osprey feeds almost exclusively on fish and will often be seen soaring or hovering over water while searching for prey. When prey is spotted it plunges feet first into the water to capture its food.
Sexes are alike in plumage, blackish above with white below.
The head is largely white with a broad black cheek patch. They are found almost worldwide. There are 217 species in this family. These birds are primarily found in the southern U.S. Food includes large insects, reptiles, and rodents. Typical flight pattern is several quick beats and a glide.