Species: Pandion haliaetus

Nesting phenology varies throughout the range. For example, in Florida, eggs are laid from late November to early March, with a peak from December to mid-January. In the Chesapeake Bay region, ospreys first arrive at nests early to mid-March, lay eggs from late March to mid-May, with a peak in April. In southern New England, ospreys arrive beginning in mid- to late March, and eggs are laid between early April to early June, with a peak in mid- to late April. In east-central Labrador, ospreys arrive around early May, and eggs are laid from mid-May to mid-June.In southeastern British Columbia, ospreys arrive in mid- to late April, with egg laying from early May (peak) to late May.<br><br>Clutch size is 1-4 (most often 3). Incubation, usually mainly by the female (male provides food), lasts 5-6 weeks. Young fledge in around 50-60 days and thereafter are dependent on their parents for up to several additional weeks. Individuals first breed usually at 3 years, sometimes at 4-5 years.<br><br>Delays in clutch initiation, such as caused when Canada geese occupy nest sites, may cause a reduction in reproductive output (Steeger and Ydenberg, 1993, Can. J. Zool. 71:2141-2146). Number of young fledged increases with increased abundance of food resources. Large numbers may nest in a relatively small area when food resources are adequate and nesting sites are plentiful.