Birds of Prey

Eagles are sometimes grouped into four different categories. Bald eagles are part of the sea eagle category. Learn more about these birds in Eagles, part of the Birds of Prey series.

Many species of kites use their wings and tail to hover in the air while searching for food. Some kites eat many types of foods. Others, including the snail kite, only eat one kind of prey. Learn more about these birds in Kites, part of the Birds of Prey series.

Vultures can be split into Old World vultures, from Europe, Africa, and Asia, and New World vultures, from North, Central, and South America. The California condor, a type of New World vulture, is the largest bird in the United States. Learn more about these birds in Vultures, part of the Birds of Prey series.

Falcons often have small bodies and large wings, making them agile in the air. One species, the peregrine falcon, is the fastest animal on Earth. Learn more about these birds in Falcons, part of the Birds of Prey series.

Unlike most other birds of prey, owls are often nocturnal, or active at night. Some owls are very large, while others, such as the elf owl, have wingspans of less than 12 inches (30 centimeters). Learn more about these birds in Owls, part of the Birds of Prey series.

The word "hawk" is used to describe many medium-sized birds of prey. Some hawks, such as Swainson's hawks, travel long distances north and south each year. Learn more about these birds in Hawks, part of the Birds of Prey series.