Birds of prey

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas - Birds of prey, also called raptors, hunt and feed on other animals. Raptor comes from a Latin word meaning “to seize or grasp.” They have three physical features that qualify them as raptors: 1) highly developed vision; 2) feet with talons; and 3) a hooked upper beak. Examples of raptors are owls, hawks, falcons, vultures and eagles. They are the only bird that uses its feet to catch prey.

VISION – A raptor’s eyesight is the best in the entire animal kingdom. The eyes are very large in proportion to their body size. A raptor can see up to 8 times more clearly than the sharpest human eye. As an example, an eagle can spot a hare up to a mile away.

TALONS – The raptor’s talons are razor-sharp. Combined with powerful leg and toe muscles, their feet are lethal weapons. They use their talons to catch, carry and kill prey.

BEAKS - Because of the size of prey hunted by raptors, the bird must have the ability to tear apart its food into bite-sized pieces. The beak is curved at the tip with sharp edges. They use their beaks to pierce, pull off fur, pluck out feathers, pull back skin and tear.

Of all the species that are admitted to TWRC Wildlife Center, raptors are the most dangerous. When examining and treating raptors, staff and volunteers take extra precautions to avoid the powerful beaks and talons.

TWRC Wildlife Center is located at 10801 Hammerly Boulevard in Houston and offers its services to Harris and all surrounding counties. If you have wildlife questions, please call 713-468-TWRC or check the website at www.twrcwildlifecenter.org.