| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | Large fish-eating raptor, about 55–60 cm in length with a wingspan of 145–170 cm. Notable for long, narrow wings, white underparts, and a dark eye-stripe across the face. Adapted for fishing, with reversible outer toes and spiny foot pads for gripping slippery prey.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Breeds in temperate and subarctic regions of Eurasia and North America; migratory populations travel long distances to wintering grounds. In India, mostly seen as a winter visitor.
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| Migrate to: | Migrates to South Asia, Africa, and Australia during the northern winter (October–April).
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| Breeding season: | In breeding regions, mainly April to July; does not breed in India.
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| Breed in: | Builds large stick nests on tall trees, cliffs, or man-made structures (such as poles or platforms) near water bodies. The same nest is reused and enlarged each year.
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| Habitat: | Found near coasts, lakes, rivers, estuaries, and reservoirs — anywhere with abundant fish populations. Often seen hovering over water before plunging to catch prey.
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| Diet: | Feeds almost exclusively on live fish, which it captures with a dramatic dive into the water. Occasionally takes eels or small aquatic animals.
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