A large hawk-like bird, the osprey also is known as a fish hawk. It is found near lakes, rivers, and seacoasts nearly worldwide. They generally are considered a single species, divided into six subspecies. Osprey may reach 24 inches (60 cm) in length, with a six-foot (1.8 m) wingspread. They weight about 4.5 pounds (2 kg). Ospreys hunt by cruising over water, hovering briefly when they see their prey, and then plunging feet first into the water. Their large claws and feet studded with sharp spines enable the osprey to clutch its slippery prey.