Raptors, often known as birds of prey, are a group of birds that catch and kill other animals to survive. Their bodies are designed for seizing prey.
General Characteristics
Raptors' bodies are strong and compact. They have short legs, long toes, rounded heads and sharp, hooked beaks. Their eyes face forward, and they are able to see long distances.
Capture and Kill
Raptors' main weapons are their beaks and feet, called talons. The beak is hooked, designed to rip apart flesh, but in some species, like falcons, it is used to kill. Talons are used to lock onto prey. Claws dig in and the tendons do not release.
Site and Locate
Raptors have excellent near- and long-distance eyesight. Their vision is twice as good as the average human being's. Tendons in their eyes are adapted for quick-focusing as the bird closes in on its prey.
Specialized Feathers
Birds of prey have specialized feathers for soaring, diving, stealth flying and flying agility.
Species
Several species fall under the category of birds called birds of prey. They include eagles, hawks, falcons and owls.
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