Birds of Prey

Raptors, or birds of prey, are a group of avian predators. There are over 560 species of raptors, including eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. Birds of prey can be found on all continents except Antarctica.

They vary significantly in size. For example, a Black-thighed Falconet (microhierax fringillarius) found in Southeast Asia is only 15 cm (6 in) long and has a wingspan of 20 cm (12 in). In contrast, an Andean Condor (vultur gryphus) can reach 1.2 metres (4 feet) in length and has a wingspan of approximately 3 metres (10 feet).

Raptors are hypercarnivorous bird species, meaning their diet mainly consists of meat. Many raptors hunt and feed on mammals, other birds, reptiles and fish. Other raptor species, such as condors and vultures, scavenge for food.

Birds of prey are highly adapted predators. They are characterised by their curved, sharp beaks and strong talons. Their incredibly sharp eyesight helps them hunt and navigate their surroundings. For example, some eagles can see a rabbit when they are over 3 km (2 miles) away.

Raptors can be divided into diurnal and nocturnal, based on when they are most active. The group of nocturnal raptors consists mainly of owls. They have excellent hearing, can see in low light and can fly almost silently.

Diurnal raptors, such as eagles, hawks, falcons and vultures, usually rely on their sight and speed when they hunt. The speed of some of these species is trully impressive. For instance, the peregrine falcon (falco peregrinus) is known as the fastest bird; it can reach a diving speed of over 300 km (186 miles) per hour.