Birds of prey are a predatory bird group that have hooked bills, sharp talons, strong feet, and keen eyesight and hearing. They tend to feed on small mammals, birds, insects and reptiles.
There are 15 species of diurnal, breeding raptor resident in the British Isles, split into three basic groups: eagles (large; hooked bills; rounded or broad wings; sharp talons; tend to soar), hawks (the next largest, with broad wings) and falcons (small to medium-sized; tapered wings and tails; fast and agile; often hover). There are also 5 regularly breeding species of owl (small to large; rounded heads; small, hooked bills; forward-facing eyes; mainly nocturnal).
Despite many species of our UK birds of prey being driven almost to extinction by humans, efforts over the last 50 years have seen our bird of prey population recovering. They live in a variety of habitats, including woodland, farmland and even in cities. Some are easy to spot, while others are much rarer or live in places that are difficult to get to. Either way, seeing a bird of prey can be an awe-inspiring experience as they soar high in the sky, or swoop down with deadly accuracy on their unsuspecting prey!
See also: owls
