Land Birds: Raptors

Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, Osprey

A lot can be deduced about diurnal raptors (34 species) by noting their appearance. Variations in wing shapes and body proportions are related to hunting style and preferred prey. Species with similar shapes tend to utilize similar habitats. Buteo identification is complicated by the extensive variation in plumage and shape within each species. Also, they fly very high.

The banning of harmful chemicals such as DDT has aided the recovery of raptor populations (e.g.: Bald Eagle, Peregrine Falcon). Habitat loss is impacting species such as the Ferruginous Hawk and American Kestrel.