NC S375

Adopts the osprey (Pandion haliaetus carolinensis) as the official raptor of North Carolina.

Describes ospreys as raptors standing 21 to 24 inches tall with wingspans up to six feet, featuring dark upper plumage and white underplumage.

Notes that ospreys are the only raptors that plunge into water feet first and can dive at speeds of 30 miles per hour or greater to catch fish with their talons.

Establishes that ospreys are found in North Carolina primarily during spring and summer near water sources like estuaries, lakes, and rivers, particularly in the Coastal Plain.

Becomes effective upon passage into law.