North American birds of prey have always been a topic of interest, not only to bird watchers and animal lovers but to those who enjoy the majestic nature of these birds, their habitats and their place in the balance of nature.
California Condor
Condors are one of the largest North American birds of prey, with a wing span stretching over nine feet. They are black in color with white patches under their wings with white or reddish-purple bald heads. They live in mountain and forest regions throughout the western United States from Canada to Mexico. Conservation efforts in the 1990s did much to replenish their numbers.
Eagle
There are over 6o species of eagle, including America’s national bird: the bald eagle. They are different from other North American birds of prey because of their larger size, strong build and heavier head and beak. Eagles are usually blackish-brown in color with white heads and live near water in mountainous and forested regions.
Falcon
Falcons are smaller to medium sized birds of prey that live throughout the world but prefer temperate regions. There are over 40 different species that are brown, grey and black in color with tapered wings that allow for incredible speed and ability to change directions. These fierce and ruthless hunters have keen eyesight and sharply pointed beaks, which help in grabbing prey quickly and effectively.
Hawk
Hawks are small to medium sized birds found throughout forests and swamp areas North and Central America. Hawks have longer tails and are reddish brown in color with paler lower parts. Their visual acuity and sharp talons allow them to hunt while perched, which enables them to make sudden dashes to snare their prey.
Vulture
Vultures are characterized as scavengers. A number of species are found throughout the Americas in open country, deserts, forests, woods, wetlands, and farmlands. They are big, stout and (some say) unattractive birds with featherless heads, sharp hooked beaks, and dark brown to black plumage. Their wingspans allow them to glide and reach high altitudes, which helps in viewing prey.
Featured Image from Dan Dennis/Unsplash
