Osprey vs. Eagle: Distinguishing Between Birds of Prey

Ospreys and eagles are two birds of prey that both hunt fish, but they have a lot of differences as well. nikpal / Getty Images

At first glance, ospreys and eagles might seem like interchangeable kings of the sky. But when making osprey vs. eagle comparisons, you'll find these two impressive birds have more differences than similarities.

Both are raptors with incredible eyesight and powerful talons, yet they've evolved to thrive in slightly different ways.

Physical Differences and Flight Style

Ospreys are a bit smaller than most eagles. An adult osprey has a wingspan of about 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 1.8 m), while bald eagles can stretch up to 7.5 feet (2.3 m).

Ospreys are sometimes called fish hawks and have a pale head with a dark eye stripe, whereas bald eagles feature a bright white head and tail with a darker body.

bird — An osprey will hover for a moment before diving into water to snatch a fish.
Beata Whitehead / Getty Images

In mid-flight, ospreys tend to hover before diving sharply for fish, their primary prey. Eagles, by contrast, are slow and steady gliders. They soar at high altitudes and often swoop down to snatch prey or feed on carrion.

Habitat and Nesting Behavior

Both birds live in similar habitats, often near large bodies of water where fish are plentiful. You’ll find them across North America, especially in places like Maine, New Jersey and parts of Canada.

But their nesting habits differ. Ospreys build massive nests in tall trees, utility poles or platforms provided by conservationists. These osprey nests can be reused and expanded over years.

Eagles, especially bald eagles, also favor tall trees but prefer more secluded nesting sites. They build some of the largest nests of any bird, weighing hundreds of pounds and used year after year.

Diet and Hunting

Ospreys are specialists. They eat almost exclusively fish, which they catch by diving feet-first into the water. They're the only raptor species with reversible outer toes and barbed footpads that help grip slippery prey.

Eagles have a more varied diet. While fish are a favorite, they also eat waterfowl, small mammals like raccoons, amphibians and reptiles.

Eagles often scavenge too, feeding on carrion when live prey is scarce. Their powerful beaks and talons allow them to catch and consume a broader range of prey.

Social Behavior and Range

Ospreys are often seen in pairs, especially during breeding season. Bald eagles are more solitary but also pair for life. Both species are territorial around nesting sites and will drive off other birds.

Ospreys have a nearly worldwide distribution, found on every continent except Antarctica. Eagles are also widespread but vary more by species. In North America, the bald eagle is the most iconic example.

Key Similarities and Differences

Both are raptors with keen eyesight and strong talons.
Ospreys dive for fish; eagles soar and may scavenge.
Ospreys have dark eye stripes; bald eagles have bright white heads.
Eagles are generally larger and more robust.
Both species may share the same habitat but rarely nest in close proximity.

So next time you're out watching the sky or scanning bird videos online, note the differences in flight, shape and hunting style.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.