BIRDS OF PREY

The term “birds of prey” refers to several related bird groups, including hawks, eagles, falcons, kites and ospreys. You may also hear the term “Raptor” when speaking of this hunting group. Vultures, not closely related, are often included because they look similar to and soar with raptors. However, vultures are efficient scavengers and feed on carrion. All other birds in this group hunt for their food.

Ingestion of poison and insecticides through prey can lead to secondary poisoning and other issues in birds of prey. Insecticides have adversely affected the breeding success of many species. One effect of the accumulation of insecticide within the bird’s body is that eggs laid have weak shells that do not last through incubation.

Habitat encroachment has also reduced territories and changed the environment in which many of these birds once thrived, making survival more difficult.

Habitat lends a clue to determine which birds of prey you may be looking at. You may find Red-tailed Hawks or American Kestrels perched along rural roadsides. Ospreys and Bald Eagles soar near water. Turkey Vultures, Golden Eagles and Red-tailed Hawks soar in open space areas above land. Sharp-shinned and Cooper Hawks may perch near garden feeders looking for prey.

Birds and people are sight-oriented animals. For both, eyes are the dominant sense organs, vastly more important than the sense of smell. Most birds have binocular vision. It is especially well developed in birds of prey, which require superior sight for successful hunting.

Although there are different categories of birds of prey, the share many similar characteristics. They all have hooked bills, large eyes, broad wings with slotted tips, strong legs and feet that are equipped with sharp talons.