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Birds of prey or predatory birds, also known as raptors, are hypercarnivorous bird species that actively hunt and feed on other vertebrates (mainly mammals, reptiles and other smaller birds). In addition to speed and strength, these predators have keen eyesight for detecting prey from a distance or during flight, strong feet with sharp talons ...
Mar 29, 2024 · Bird of prey, any bird that pursues other animals for food. Birds of prey are classified in two orders: Falconiformes and Strigiformes. Diurnal birds of prey—hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons (Falconiformes)—are also called raptors. The nocturnal birds of prey are the owls (Strigiformes).
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
- What bird of prey have you spotted? ‘Birds of prey’ are large, predatory bird species that have hooked bills, sharp talons, strong feet, and keen eyesight and hearing.
- Sparrowhawk. Where: Variety of habitats, including gardens, across the UK. Description: Small. Males have blue-grey backs and white underparts with orange barring.
- Buzzard. Where: Grassland, farmland and woodland across the UK. Description: Medium. Brown plumage, broad wings and a short tail. ©Chris Lawrence. ©Bob Coyle.
- Red kite. Where: Woodland and farmland mainly in Wales and South East England. Description: Large. Reddish-brown plumage, black-tipped wings with white patches underneath, and a forked tail.
There are over 560 species of birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles, vultures, and falcons, which can be found on every continent on Earth except Antarctica. They hunt small animals, like rodents, rabbits, fish, lizards, and other birds, aided by their acute vision and incredible speed.
Types of Birds of Prey. Eagles are majestic birds of prey that belong to the family Accipitridae. They are known for their powerful build, large size, and impressive flying abilities. With their sharp beaks and strong talons, eagles are highly efficient hunters. They have a keen eyesight that allows them to spot prey from great distances.
North America has 40 birds of prey that have been spotted here which includes owls, eagles, hawks, vultures, falcons, kites, and osprey. Birds of prey hunt and eat other animals, mainly mammals, reptiles, and smaller birds, but some also hunt fish.
Birds of prey are simply carnivorous hunting birds that kill and feed on other vertebrates, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and even other birds. Still, the term ‘birds of prey’ would not refer to birds like pelicans and kingfishers, even though they also hunt and eat other animals.
