Birds Of - Prey

In most species, the female is up to one-third larger than the male, allowing pairs to hunt a wider variety of prey. II. Major Categories of Raptors

Mostly nocturnal with silent flight and excellent night vision.

Cooper’s Hawks often show a dark, blocky head, while Red-shouldered Hawks have a more rounded, red-tinted head. Birds of Prey

Primarily carrion feeders with featherless heads. III. Identification Tips in the Field

Focus on wing shape, tail length, and overall profile (e.g., Accipiters have rounded wings and long tails, while Buteos have broad wings). In most species, the female is up to

Birds of prey are carnivorous, feeding primarily on meat, and possess specialized traits for hunting: Sharp, curved claws for grasping prey. Beaks: Hook-tipped, razor-sharp beaks for tearing flesh.

Notice if the bird soars ( Buteos ), flaps rapidly then glides ( Accipiters ), or has a "wobble" while flying ( Turkey Vultures ). Cooper’s Hawks often show a dark, blocky head,

Crows often mob Goshawks (a signal to start looking for them). Other birds may go silent when a raptor is near.