What is a bird of prey?

A bird of prey is a bird that hunts and feeds on other animals, typically small mammals and other birds. These birds are also known as raptors or birds of prey, and they are characterized by their sharp talons, hooked beaks, and exceptional eyesight. There are over 300 species of birds of prey around the world, including eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and vultures.

Birds of prey are some of the most skilled hunters in the animal kingdom, and their hunting strategies can vary depending on the species. Some, like eagles and hawks, hunt by soaring high in the sky and swooping down on their prey with incredible speed and accuracy. Others, like owls, are stealth hunters that rely on their quiet flight and excellent hearing to catch their prey by surprise.

Birds of prey play an important role in many ecosystems as top predators. They help to keep populations of smaller animals in check, and they can also act as scavengers, feeding on the carcasses of dead animals. Because of their size and hunting abilities, birds of prey have been revered and feared by humans throughout history, and they have been depicted in art and mythology around the world.