Raptors

Raptors of the World

Environmental Science Week 5

Raptors, or Birds of Prey, are commonly known the predatorial bird of the world that are larger and bulker than other birds.

Not Dinosaurs, Birds of Prey

However, birds are descended from a certain meat-eating dinosaur group called theropods. But they have evolved to have their own special features.

So the big question is...
How is a Raptor different from other birds?

You can always tell which bird is a raptor from their special features: A hooked beak, strong feet with sharp talons, and keen eyes in front of the head.

Features

There are many types of raptors out there. Which are Hawks, Eagles, Falcons, Kites, Vultures, and Owls. And there are over 482 species of raptor in the world.

Species

All species of raptors are different, But there are ways that you can tell which is which.

Hawks have shorter, broader wings and wide fan shaped tails.
Eagles are the biggest and most powerful birds of prey.
Falcons have slim, long wings with pointed tails.
Kites have slim, long wings as well with graceful tails.
Vultures are large and often bald-headed.
Owls have round faces and the biggest eyes of any raptor.

Differences

Raptors have different kinds of food they eat, which include small mammals, reptiles, large insects, fish, carrion and other birds. And they use their own special features to hunt their prey.

Hunting

Now watch this video on Birds of Prey to learn more about Raptors and their different kinds of species. Also, listen closely to the different kinds of screeches they make.

Video

Now continue on for 3 quick quizzes on what you've learned.

Fill in the Blanks

How many species of Raptors are there in the world?

Poll

Which of these Birds is NOT a Raptor

• Hummingbird

• Eagle

• Owl

• Falcon

• Hawk

Categorize

Options (4)

Organize these options into the right categories

Falcon

Owl

Eagle

Hawk

What Did You Think?

Raptors are very interesting birds that differ from other birds, and they can do a lot of things out in the wild. Which Raptor would be your favorite?