Feeding behaviour of the Osprey 'Pandion haliaetus' on the north coast of New South Wales

Abstract

The feeding behaviour of the Osprey 'Pandion haliaetus' was studied at feeding grounds, feeding perches and nests in the Clarence Valley, north-east New South Wales, from 1991 to 1996. Foraging behaviour was found to be similar to that of Northern Hemisphere birds. Although birds were found to take mostly living fish, one record of possible scavenging was made. The male Osprey was the mail provider during the breeding season, bringing food to the nest for the female and nestlings. Details of hunting, delivery of food to the nest area, eating behaviour, courtship feeding, food solicitation, and interspecific competition are presented.