The Ospreys (Pandionidae) are three closely related species of diurnal, fish-eating birds of prey. They are large raptors, reaching 60 centimetres in length with a 2 m wingspan.

Ospreys tolerate a wide variety of habitats, nesting in any location near a body of water providing an adequate food supply. They are found on all continents except Antarctica although in South America they occur only as a non-breeding migrant.

The Ospreys' diet consists almost exclusively of fish. They have evolved specialised physical characteristics and exhibit unique behaviour to assist in hunting and catching prey. Prey is first sighted when the osprey is 10–40 metres above the water, after which the bird hovers momentarily then plunges feet first into the water. They have reversible outer toes, sharp spicules on the underside of the toes, closable nostrils to keep out water during dives, and backwards-facing scales on the talons which act as barbs to help hold its catch.

The Osprey is depicted as a white eagle in heraldry and more recently has become a symbol of positive responses to nature, and has been featured on more than 50 postage stamps, used as a brand name for various product and sports teams - like the Seattle Seahawks and the North Florida Ospreys. In Greek mythology, Nisos, the king of Megara, became a sea eagle or Osprey, to attack his daughter after she fell in love with Minos, king of Crete.