Birds of prey are among the most fascinating and powerful creatures in the avian world. Known for their sharp talons, hooked beaks, and exceptional hunting skills, these raptors dominate the skies as top predators. Whether soaring high above open landscapes or silently swooping down on their prey, each bird of prey plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems.
From the mighty eagles and hawks to the stealthy owls and falcons, birds of prey come in a diverse range of species, each with unique adaptations. Some excel in speed, like the Peregrine Falcon, while others rely on their incredible eyesight, like the Golden Eagle. Their distinct hunting techniques and habitats make them one of the most studied groups of birds worldwide.
This guide explores 46 species of birds of prey, complete with pictures and identification tips to help bird enthusiasts and nature lovers recognize them in the wild. Whether you are a birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer, or simply curious about these majestic raptors, this comprehensive list will provide valuable insights into the world of birds of prey.
Different Types of Birds of Prey
Northern Harrier
Northern Harriers (Circus hudsonius) are one of the most distinctive birds of prey in North America. Unlike most hawks, which rely primarily on their vision to hunt, Northern Harriers also use their acute hearing, similar to owls. Their facial disk helps funnel sound to their ears, allowing them to detect prey hidden in grass or low vegetation.
Male Northern Harriers are gray with black wingtips and a white rump patch, while females and juveniles are brown with streaked underparts. They have long, narrow wings and tails, giving them an elegant, buoyant flight pattern. Unlike other hawks that soar with their wings flat, harriers hold their wings in a slight V-shape while gliding.
These birds prefer open habitats such as grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields. They hunt by flying low over the ground, listening and watching for small mammals and birds. Their soft “kek-kek-kek” call is often heard during the breeding season, but they are generally silent while hunting. Their unique hunting style and graceful flight make them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.
Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawks (Buteo lineatus) are medium-sized birds of prey found in North America, particularly in the eastern and coastal regions of the United States. They are easily identified by their reddish-brown shoulders, black-and-white checkered wings, and a strongly banded tail. Their underparts feature a warm rufous hue, which contrasts beautifully with their pale underwings. These hawks thrive in mature woodlands, especially near rivers and swamps, where they have plenty of perches to hunt from.
Unlike some other birds of prey, Red-shouldered Hawks are quite vocal, often emitting a loud, high-pitched “kee-aah” call that echoes through the forest. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, but they also consume amphibians, reptiles, and even birds when the opportunity arises. They are skilled hunters that often perch on tree branches, scanning the ground before swooping down on their prey. In some cases, they have been observed hunting in suburban areas, taking advantage of backyard bird feeders to catch small birds.
During the breeding season, Red-shouldered Hawks construct their nests high in trees, often reusing old nests from previous years. Both parents participate in raising their young, with the female incubating the eggs while the male brings food. Once hatched, the chicks grow rapidly, fledging within five to six weeks. Their strong parental instincts and adaptability have allowed them to thrive even in human-altered landscapes.
Broad-winged Hawk
Broad-winged Hawks (Buteo platypterus) are compact, stocky birds of prey that inhabit dense forests across North America. They have broad, rounded wings and a short tail, making them well-suited for maneuvering through thick woodlands. Their plumage is a mix of brown and white, with a distinctive dark band along the edges of their tails. These hawks are secretive and can be difficult to spot, as they prefer to stay hidden beneath the forest canopy.
One of the most remarkable traits of Broad-winged Hawks is their long-distance migration. Every fall, they travel thousands of miles from their breeding grounds in the U.S. and Canada to their wintering habitats in Central and South America. They migrate in massive flocks called “kettles,” using rising warm air currents to conserve energy. These kettles can contain thousands of individuals and are a spectacular sight for birdwatchers.
Despite their preference for deep forests, Broad-winged Hawks sometimes adapt to suburban areas with sufficient tree cover. They primarily feed on small mammals, frogs, and insects, hunting from perches or gliding over open spaces. Their sharp whistles, often heard during breeding season, help them communicate with mates and warn intruders away from their nests.
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-tailed Hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) are among the most recognizable birds of prey in North America. They are often spotted soaring in the sky or perched on poles and fences along roadsides. Their name comes from their distinctive reddish-brown tail, which contrasts with their generally brownish body. These hawks are powerful and versatile hunters, feeding mainly on rodents, birds, and small mammals.
Identifying a Red-tailed Hawk can be tricky due to the wide variety of plumage colors they exhibit. Their most defining feature is their broad, rounded wings and the signature red tail, which is most visible in adult birds. Juveniles lack the red tail and instead have a brownish, banded tail. They also have a pale underbelly with a dark band across the belly region.
These hawks are highly adaptable and can thrive in almost any habitat. They are found in open fields, woodlands, deserts, and even urban areas. Whether in remote forests or city parks, they manage to hunt effectively. Their loud, raspy scream is one of the most recognized bird calls, often used in movies to represent any raptor.
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Sharp-shinned Hawks (Accipiter striatus) are the smallest hawks in North America, known for their incredible speed and agility. These raptors are common in wooded areas and are frequently seen darting through trees while hunting. They primarily prey on songbirds, making them regular visitors to backyard bird feeders where they ambush their unsuspecting prey.
Adult Sharp-shinned Hawks have a blue-gray back and wings with rusty orange barring on the chest, which fades as it extends downward. Their wings are relatively short and rounded, but they have long, narrow tails that help them maneuver swiftly through dense forests. Females are significantly larger than males, a characteristic common in many raptor species.
These hawks prefer dense forests but can also be seen in suburban areas where they stalk small birds. They are mostly migratory, moving south during the winter months. Their call is a high-pitched, rapid “kik-kik-kik” sound, often repeated several times, helping birdwatchers identify them even when they are hidden in thick foliage.
Cooper’s Hawk
Cooper’s Hawks (Accipiter cooperii) are medium-sized raptors that are commonly found in forests, suburban areas, and even urban parks. Known for their swift and agile flight, these birds are experts at navigating through thick tree cover while chasing prey. Their primary diet consists of small birds, and they frequently raid backyard bird feeders.
Cooper’s Hawks closely resemble Sharp-shinned Hawks, making identification challenging. They have the same steely blue-gray coloration, reddish barring on the chest, and a black cap. However, Cooper’s Hawks are noticeably larger, with a bulkier frame and broader wings. Their tails are rounded at the tip, while Sharp-shinned Hawks have more squared-off tails.
These hawks are year-round residents in many parts of North America, favoring woodlands, parks, and suburban gardens. Their call is a repetitive “cak-cak-cak” sound, often heard during breeding season. Their stealth and speed make them formidable hunters, capable of catching birds in midair with astonishing precision.
Northern Goshawk
Northern Goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) are powerful and secretive raptors that inhabit large, remote forests. Unlike other hawks that are commonly seen in suburban areas, these birds prefer undisturbed wilderness. They are aggressive hunters, preying on a variety of animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.
This species is distinguished by its dark-colored head with deep red eyes and a bold white eyebrow stripe. Their underparts are bluish-white with fine gray barring, while their upper body is blue-gray. Some individuals may have brownish hues depending on their morph. They have broad, rounded wings and long tails, which help them maneuver through dense forests.
Northern Goshawks are widespread across North America but are difficult to spot due to their elusive nature. While some individuals migrate south during winter, others remain in the same territory year-round. Their call is a harsh “ca-ca-ca” sound, and they often turn their heads while calling, creating a ventriloquist-like effect that makes pinpointing their location challenging.
Ferruginous Hawk
Ferruginous Hawks (Buteo regalis) are the largest birds of prey in the Buteo genus, primarily found in the open landscapes of the western United States. These powerful raptors have long, broad wings and striking plumage that varies between two morphs: light and dark. Light-morph individuals have rusty brown backs and pale underparts, while dark-morph hawks appear rich chocolate brown. Their large size, feathered legs, and fierce hunting abilities make them a dominant predator in grasslands and deserts.
Unlike many other birds of prey, Ferruginous Hawks sometimes hunt in groups, particularly in winter, when they roost together in numbers ranging from 6 to 12 individuals. Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, such as prairie dogs, rabbits, and ground squirrels, which they catch using their powerful talons. They are known for their ability to hover briefly in mid-air before diving onto their prey, a behavior similar to kestrels.
Breeding pairs of Ferruginous Hawks are highly territorial and prefer open, elevated nesting sites, including cliffs, rock outcrops, and even man-made structures like power poles. They construct large nests out of sticks, often lined with softer materials such as grass and fur. Their strong pair bonds and adaptability to different nesting sites contribute to their successful reproduction each year.
Swainson’s Hawk
Swainson’s Hawks (Buteo swainsoni) are migratory birds of prey that breed in the open landscapes of western North America. They are medium-sized raptors with long, pointed wings and a distinctive two-tone coloration: a brown chest and a pale belly. They prefer grasslands, prairies, and agricultural fields, where they can hunt for small mammals and large insects such as grasshoppers.
One of the most incredible aspects of Swainson’s Hawks is their long-distance migration. Each year, they travel over 6,000 miles (9,600 km) from North America to Argentina, one of the longest migrations of any raptor species. During this journey, they form massive flocks called “kettles,” often soaring alongside Broad-winged Hawks and Turkey Vultures. These large groups of migrating raptors are a breathtaking sight in the sky.
Swainson’s Hawks are highly adaptable hunters, changing their diet depending on the season. While they primarily eat rodents and small reptiles during breeding months, they switch to an insect-based diet in South America. Their call is a prolonged, high-pitched “kreeeeer,” often used during flight or territorial disputes.
Rough-legged Hawk
Rough-legged Hawks (Buteo lagopus) are unique birds of prey that breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate south during winter. They are named for the thick feathers covering their legs, which help insulate them in extreme cold. Their plumage varies, with light and dark morphs, but all individuals have distinct dark patches on their underwings and a strongly banded tail.
Unlike many other birds of prey, Rough-legged Hawks are known for their hovering hunting technique. They often face the wind and remain nearly stationary in mid-air, scanning the ground for small mammals such as voles and lemmings. This behavior, along with their feathered legs, helps distinguish them from other hawks commonly seen in open fields and grasslands.
During winter, Rough-legged Hawks can be found across the United States, favoring marshes, prairies, and open fields. They are relatively quiet birds, only vocalizing near their nesting sites in the Arctic. Their migration patterns depend on food availability, and in years when prey is scarce, they may travel farther south than usual. These fascinating raptors are a highlight for birdwatchers during the colder months.
Osprey
Ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) are unique birds of prey that belong to their own distinct family, Pandionidae. They are not hawks or eagles, although they are often mistaken for them due to their similar appearance. These large raptors have dark brown upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive dark eye stripe that extends to the sides of their neck. Their wings are long and narrow, allowing them to glide effortlessly over water as they search for food.
Unlike other birds of prey, Ospreys have a specialized diet that consists almost entirely of fish. Because of this, they are always found near bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal shorelines. They have evolved unique adaptations for hunting fish, such as reversible outer toes that help them grasp slippery prey and nostrils that close to prevent water intake when they dive. Their success rate when catching fish is remarkably high, making them one of nature’s most efficient hunters.
Ospreys are highly vocal, especially when defending their nests. Their alarm call consists of a series of high-pitched whistles that descend in tone, resembling the sound of a teapot taken off a stove. These birds build large stick nests on top of trees, poles, and even man-made platforms, often returning to the same nesting site year after year. Conservation efforts have helped Osprey populations recover after significant declines due to pesticide use in the mid-20th century.
Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) is one of the most widespread and adaptable birds of prey in North America. These large owls are instantly recognizable due to their prominent ear tufts, large yellow eyes, and mottled brown plumage. They are powerful predators capable of hunting a wide variety of prey, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and even other raptors. Their silent flight and exceptional hearing make them highly effective nocturnal hunters.
Great Horned Owls thrive in diverse habitats, from dense forests to urban areas, deserts, and open grasslands. Unlike many owl species, they do not rely on specific nesting sites but instead take over abandoned nests from hawks, crows, or squirrels. They are fiercely territorial and will defend their nesting sites with aggressive hoots and displays.
The deep, resonant hoots of the Great Horned Owl are among the most iconic owl calls in North America. Their vocalizations can carry for miles, especially on cold winter nights when they establish territories and attract mates. They are one of the earliest nesting birds, often laying eggs in late winter before other species have begun breeding.
Barred Owl
Barred Owls (Strix varia) are medium to large owls known for their distinctive hooting call that sounds like they are saying, “Who cooks for you?” Their name comes from the horizontal barring on their brown and white plumage, which helps them blend into the dense forests they inhabit. They have large, dark eyes, giving them an expressive appearance that is different from the yellow-eyed Great Horned Owl.
These owls prefer mature forests near water, including swamps, riverbanks, and wooded wetlands. Unlike many owls that are strictly nocturnal, Barred Owls are often active during the daytime, making them easier to spot. They are curious and may even approach humans if they hear imitations of their calls.
Barred Owls have a varied diet that includes small mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and even fish. They are opportunistic hunters, capturing whatever prey is available. They mate for life and return to the same nesting sites year after year. Due to habitat changes, their range has expanded westward, sometimes leading to competition with the closely related Spotted Owl.
Long-eared Owl
Long-eared Owls (Asio otus) are slender, medium-sized owls known for their long ear tufts, which resemble exclamation marks when raised. They have a distinctive mottled brown and gray plumage that provides excellent camouflage, making them difficult to spot in dense foliage. Their bright yellow eyes and facial disk give them an alert and intense expression.
These secretive owls prefer roosting in dense forests, especially coniferous and mixed woodlands. They are highly elusive and often go unnoticed unless they are flushed from their hiding spots. Unlike most owls, Long-eared Owls are social and sometimes form communal roosts in the winter, with multiple individuals gathering in a single area.
During the breeding season, males produce a series of low “hoo” calls that are repeated rhythmically, sometimes up to 200 times in a row. Their hunting strategy involves flying low over open fields at night, scanning for small mammals such as voles and mice. Because of their secretive nature, they are more often heard than seen in the wild.
Eastern Screech-Owl
Eastern Screech-Owls (Megascops asio) are small but stocky owls found throughout the eastern United States. They come in two primary color morphs—gray and reddish-brown—both of which provide excellent camouflage against tree bark. Despite their small size, these owls are fearless predators, hunting a wide variety of prey, including insects, small mammals, birds, and even amphibians.
These owls are highly adaptable and can be found in forests, suburban areas, and even city parks. They are cavity nesters, often using old woodpecker holes or nesting boxes to raise their young. Unlike larger owls that require vast territories, Eastern Screech-Owls can thrive in relatively small wooded patches, making them one of the most common owl species near human settlements.
Eastern Screech-Owls produce a variety of vocalizations, including a descending whinny and a soft, even-pitched trill known as the “tremolo.” The tremolo call is often used between mates to communicate, and it closely resembles the call of a toad. Because of their nocturnal habits and excellent camouflage, they are more often heard than seen.
Western Screech-Owl
Western Screech-Owls (Megascops kennicottii) are small but fierce nocturnal raptors native to the western United States. They have a compact body with short ear tufts, yellow eyes, and a mottled gray or brown plumage that helps them blend seamlessly into tree bark. These owls were once thought to be the same species as the Eastern Screech-Owl, but studies have since confirmed their distinctiveness.
These owls are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including forests, deserts, farmlands, and suburban parks. They prefer areas with tree cavities for nesting, but they will also use nest boxes when available. Their wide range extends from Canada down to Mexico.
Western Screech-Owls are opportunistic hunters with a diet consisting primarily of small mammals, birds, and insects. They are also known to consume fish, amphibians, and invertebrates like crayfish and worms. Despite their name, their call is not a screech but a soft, rhythmic trill that speeds up toward the end.
Snowy Owl
The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) is one of the most striking owls in North America, famous for its brilliant white feathers that provide excellent camouflage in snowy environments. While adult males tend to be nearly pure white, females and younger individuals display dark barring throughout their plumage. Their yellow eyes and large size make them unmistakable among other owl species.
These owls breed in the Arctic tundra, where they nest on the ground and rely on lemmings as their primary food source. As winter approaches, Snowy Owls migrate southward, sometimes reaching the northern United States and, during irruptions, even states like Texas and Florida. Their movements are unpredictable and depend on food availability.
Unlike many other owls, Snowy Owls are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. Their calls include deep, resonant hoots that can travel great distances. Males are more vocal than females, using their calls to defend territory or attract a mate. Additionally, they produce a variety of other sounds, including hissing and bill snapping.
Great Gray Owl
The Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa) is the largest owl species in the United States, though it appears bulkier than it actually is due to its thick plumage. Its rounded head lacks ear tufts, and its face features distinctive concentric circles, giving it a wise and ghostly appearance. Many observers liken its markings to a bowtie, adding to its regal look.
These owls prefer dense coniferous and mixed forests near open meadows, where they hunt for small mammals. During winter, they use their exceptional hearing to detect rodents moving beneath the snow, plunging through to capture prey. Since they require a large hunting range, they are more commonly found in the northern parts of the U.S. and Canada.
Unlike many other owls, Great Gray Owls do not build their own nests. Instead, they reuse abandoned nests from other birds, such as hawks or ravens. Once they claim a nesting site, they defend it fiercely—even against large predators like black bears. Their vocalizations are deep, rhythmic hoots, often used to communicate with mates or defend territory.
American Barn Owl
Barn Owls (Tyto furcata) are easily recognizable by their heart-shaped facial disc, which is a pale sandy color with a dark brown rim. This specialized facial structure directs sound to their ears, giving them extraordinary hearing abilities. Their large, dark eyes and light-colored underparts add to their ghostly appearance, earning them nicknames like “Ghost Owl” and “Monkey-faced Owl.”
These owls are widespread across North and South America, commonly found in open grasslands, farmlands, and abandoned buildings. Unlike many other owls, they are non-migratory, remaining in their territories year-round. Farmers highly appreciate them due to their role in controlling rodent populations.
Barn Owls do not hoot like typical owls; instead, they emit a long, eerie screech that resembles the cry of a Red-tailed Hawk. Males also engage in wing-clapping displays during courtship. Their silent flight and haunting calls make them one of the most fascinating owl species to encounter.
Burrowing Owl
Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) are unique among owls as they spend much of their time on the ground rather than in trees. They are small, long-legged birds with sandy brown plumage, yellow eyes, and white spots covering their bodies. Their long legs help them move efficiently on the ground, allowing them to chase after insects and small prey.
These owls inhabit open grasslands, deserts, and prairies across North and South America. Instead of nesting in trees, they use burrows for shelter, often taking over abandoned tunnels made by prairie dogs or ground squirrels. Some individuals even dig their own burrows. To prepare for food shortages, they store large amounts of prey underground.
Burrowing Owls are relatively quiet compared to other owls. Their most common vocalization is a two-note call that sounds like “who-who” or “coo-coo-roo,” primarily made by males during the breeding season. Despite their small size, they can be quite feisty when defending their nests, often mimicking the rattling sound of a rattlesnake to deter predators.
Northern Saw-whet Owl
The Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus) is one of the smallest raptors in the United States, measuring only 6.5 to 9 inches in length. With their round heads, pale brown and tan plumage, and large yellow eyes, these owls are often described as “cute as a button.” Despite their small size, they are skilled hunters, primarily preying on mice, voles, and shrews.
These owls inhabit dense coniferous and mixed hardwood forests, often near rivers or streams. Due to their reliance on mature trees for nesting and roosting, their population has been affected by habitat loss. They are most active at night and are rarely seen, though their presence can often be detected by their calls.
The Northern Saw-whet Owl gets its name from the sound it makes when alarmed, which resembles the sharpening of a saw. However, their most common call is a repetitive “too-too-too” whistle, which males use during the breeding season. This soft yet persistent call can be heard echoing through the woods at night.
Northern Pygmy-Owl
The Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium californicum) is a tiny but fierce diurnal owl found in mountainous regions of North America. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day, hunting small birds, mammals, and insects. This owl has a distinctive appearance with a white chest marked by black vertical streaks, brown-spotted plumage, and two “false eyes” on the back of its head to deter predators.
These owls prefer open coniferous forests or mixed woodlands at higher elevations. They are known for their bold hunting behavior and can take down prey that is twice their size, including songbirds and even small chickens. Their small stature allows them to maneuver swiftly through trees in pursuit of prey.
Despite their fierce nature, Northern Pygmy-Owls have a simple and unimpressive call. Their song consists of a series of short, high-pitched whistles that sound like “too-too-too,” repeated at a steady rhythm. While they may not be the most vocal owls, their hunting prowess makes them one of the most formidable small raptors.
Flammulated Owl
The Flammulated Owl (Psiloscops flammeolus) is named for the flame-like markings on its plumage, which create an ashy, ember-speckled appearance. These small owls are well-camouflaged and difficult to spot, blending seamlessly with the bark of coniferous trees. Their dark eyes and compact size set them apart from other owls in their range.
Flammulated Owls primarily inhabit high-elevation coniferous forests but can also be found in mixed woodlands where pine trees are present. Unlike most owls, they feed almost exclusively on insects such as moths, crickets, and beetles, though they occasionally eat small rodents. Their reliance on insects means they migrate south during colder months when their prey becomes scarce.
One of the most fascinating traits of the Flammulated Owl is its deep, low-pitched hoot, which sounds much larger than what one would expect from such a small bird. This adaptation is due to their unusually large windpipe, which amplifies their call. Despite their elusive nature, their deep hoots can be heard resonating from treetops during the breeding season.
Spotted Owl
The Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis) is a medium-to-large owl known for its dark brown plumage marked with distinctive white spots. Unlike many other owl species, it has dark eyes instead of the more common yellow eyes. These owls are found in mature forests of the western United States, particularly in old-growth woodlands.
Due to their strong preference for ancient forests, Spotted Owls are highly vulnerable to habitat destruction. Logging and deforestation have drastically reduced their numbers, and competition with the invasive Barred Owl has further threatened their survival. Because of this, they are considered a threatened species, and conservation efforts are ongoing.
Spotted Owls do not build their own nests but instead use old nests made by other birds or natural tree cavities. Their most common vocalization is a soft, four-note hoot used for territory defense and communication between mates. Males also call when delivering food to females, making their vocalizations an essential part of their behavior.
Boreal Owl
The Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus) is a small, elusive owl found in dense boreal forests of North America. These owls exhibit a range of color variations, from reddish-brown to gray, with intricate patterns of streaks and spots. Their round, flat face is framed by a white border, and their bright yellow eyes stand out against their darker plumage.
Living in remote locations, Boreal Owls prefer stands of aspen, spruce, fir, and birch trees. Their isolated habitats make them difficult to study, and little is known about their long-term population trends. They are primarily nocturnal hunters, preying on small mammals such as voles, bats, and baby squirrels, as well as frogs and large insects.
Boreal Owls have a distinctive series of whistled toots that gradually increase in volume. Males typically call during the breeding season to attract females, making them more vocal in the spring. Because of their secretive nature, they are rarely seen, but their haunting calls can sometimes be heard in the depths of the northern forests.
Northern Hawk Owl
The Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula) is a unique bird of prey that behaves more like a hawk than an owl. Unlike most owls, it is active during the day, perching atop tall trees in search of prey. It has a long tail, a streamlined body, and a flat facial disk with yellow eyes that give it a fierce expression. Its plumage is a mix of brown and white, with horizontal barring on the chest and vertical streaks on the belly.
These owls inhabit boreal forests across North America, preferring open woodlands with scattered trees. Their primary food source is small mammals like voles, but they also hunt birds and insects. Unlike many owl species, they rely more on sight than sound when hunting, scanning the ground for movement from their high perches.
Northern Hawk Owls have a distinctive call, a rolling “hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo” repeated rapidly. Males call most often during the breeding season, using their voice to establish territory and attract a mate. Despite their striking appearance and daytime habits, they remain elusive and are rarely seen by birdwatchers.
Short-eared Owl
The Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) is a medium-sized owl known for its wide-ranging habitat and unique hunting behavior. It has mottled brown plumage, a pale face with yellow eyes, and small ear tufts that are often barely visible. Its large, rounded wings and buoyant flight make it resemble a moth as it glides low over grasslands in search of prey.
Unlike most owls, Short-eared Owls are active at dawn and dusk, making them easier to spot than nocturnal species. They prefer open habitats like meadows, marshes, and grasslands across North America. Their diet primarily consists of small rodents, especially voles, but they will also eat birds and insects.
Their vocalizations include soft hoots and cat-like calls, but they are generally quiet outside the breeding season. If threatened near their nest, they may perform a distraction display by feigning injury to lure predators away. These ground-nesting owls face threats from habitat loss, but they remain widespread due to their adaptability.
Peregrine Falcon
The Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is the fastest animal on Earth, capable of reaching speeds of over 200 mph (320 km/h) during its hunting stoop. It has a sleek, muscular body, long pointed wings, and a distinctive black “helmet” marking on its head. Its plumage is bluish-gray on the back and barred white on the underside.
These falcons thrive in various environments, from coastal cliffs to urban skyscrapers, where they nest and hunt. They are widely distributed across North America, often seen soaring high above cities and open landscapes. Their primary prey is birds, including pigeons and ducks, which they strike mid-air with deadly precision.
Peregrine Falcons produce a series of sharp, high-pitched calls, particularly during courtship or when defending their nest. Their populations declined due to pesticide use in the mid-20th century, but strong conservation efforts have helped them recover, making them a true success story in wildlife conservation.
American Kestrel
The American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is the smallest falcon in North America, about the size of a robin. Despite its diminutive stature, it is a fierce and agile hunter. Males have striking blue-gray wings and rusty-orange backs, while females are more uniformly brown. Both sexes have black facial markings resembling sideburns.
American Kestrels inhabit open fields, grasslands, and even suburban areas, often seen perching on wires or hovering in place while hunting. They feed on a variety of prey, including insects, small mammals, and birds. They are also known to take down prey as large as sparrows in mid-air.
Their call is a high-pitched “klee-klee-klee,” which is often heard during the breeding season. While they are common across the United States, habitat loss and pesticide exposure have led to declining populations in some areas. Providing nest boxes has helped support kestrel populations in certain regions.
Prairie Falcon
The Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus) is a powerful raptor native to the open landscapes of western North America. Similar in appearance to the Peregrine Falcon, it has a sandy-brown back and dark “mustache” markings on its face. Unlike its close relative, the Prairie Falcon prefers dry, open habitats such as grasslands and deserts.
These falcons are skilled hunters, preying on birds and small mammals. They are known for their high-speed pursuits, diving rapidly to catch prey. They also engage in playful behavior, sometimes carrying objects like rocks or manure and dropping them mid-flight, possibly as a way to hone their hunting skills.
Prairie Falcons are generally silent but will emit a rapid “kik-kik-kik” when defending their territory. They nest on cliff ledges and rocky outcrops, avoiding heavily forested areas. Their reliance on vast open spaces makes them vulnerable to habitat changes, but they remain a prominent predator in the American West.
Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is one of the most recognizable birds in North America and has been the national symbol of the United States since 1782. These large raptors are primarily found near bodies of water, where they can hunt their preferred prey—fish. Their striking appearance includes a white head and tail, contrasting with a dark brown body and wings, and their powerful yellow beak adds to their majestic presence.
Bald Eagles inhabit a variety of wetland environments, including lakes, rivers, coasts, and marshes. They require tall trees for nesting and perching, making forests near large water bodies ideal habitats. Though once on the brink of extinction due to pesticide poisoning, conservation efforts have successfully restored their populations across the United States.
Despite their imposing appearance, Bald Eagles have a surprisingly weak call that resembles a series of high-pitched whistles and trills. Their vocalizations are often overshadowed by their dramatic aerial displays and impressive hunting skills, making them an enduring symbol of strength and freedom.
Merlin
The Merlin (Falco columbarius) is a small but fierce falcon that can be found across North America. It has a compact, stocky build, sharply pointed wings, and a medium-length tail. Males display blue-gray upperparts, while females and juveniles are brown with streaked underparts. These falcons are known for their rapid wingbeats and powerful flight.
Merlins prefer open habitats such as grasslands, forest edges, and coastal areas. Unlike other falcons, they do not build their own nests but instead use abandoned nests of crows and hawks. Their diet consists mainly of small birds, which they capture mid-flight using surprise attacks. They are also known to hunt insects and small mammals.
These raptors are generally silent, but during courtship or when defending their territory, they emit a high-pitched, rapid “klee-klee-klee” call. Though not commonly seen due to their elusive nature, Merlins play an important role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling bird populations.
Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is one of the most powerful raptors in North America. It is named for the golden-brown feathers on the back of its head and neck, which contrast with its dark brown body. These eagles have large, broad wings and feathered legs that extend down to their talons—a feature that distinguishes them from Bald Eagles.
Golden Eagles prefer open landscapes such as mountains, cliffs, and grasslands. They primarily prey on small to medium-sized mammals, including rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, and prairie dogs. However, they are capable of taking down larger animals, including deer fawns and coyotes, using their incredible speed and strength.
Despite their formidable hunting skills, Golden Eagles have relatively weak, high-pitched calls that resemble whistles. They are typically silent, relying more on their keen eyesight and swift flight to maintain dominance in their territories. These magnificent birds continue to thrive in remote and rugged regions across North America.
Turkey Vulture
The Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) is one of the most widespread scavengers in North America. It is easily recognized by its large size, dark plumage, and featherless red head, which gives it a resemblance to a Wild Turkey. Turkey Vultures have long, broad wings with a distinctive two-toned appearance, making them easy to identify in flight.
These birds rely on their exceptional sense of smell to locate carrion, detecting decaying animals from several miles away. They prefer fresh carcasses and will often arrive at a site quickly after an animal’s death. Turkey Vultures can be found in a wide range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to deserts and suburban areas.
To regulate their body temperature, Turkey Vultures defecate on their legs, a behavior that helps cool them down. When threatened, they may regurgitate partially digested food as a defense mechanism. Though their feeding habits may seem unappealing, Turkey Vultures play a crucial role in cleaning up the environment by consuming dead animals.
Swallow-tailed Kite
The Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus) is one of the most acrobatic and elegant raptors found in North America. These striking birds are easily recognized by their long, deeply forked black tail, pointed wings, and contrasting white underparts. They are most commonly seen soaring gracefully through the sky, executing tight turns and sudden dives.
Swallow-tailed Kites breed in the southeastern United States, especially in Florida and the Gulf Coast. However, they only stay for a few months before migrating back to South America for the winter. Their preferred habitats include swamps, marshes, and forested river corridors.
These raptors have a unique diet that includes insects, small reptiles, and even stinging insects like wasps. They are known to snatch entire wasp nests and bring them back to their young for feeding. Despite their skillful hunting abilities, they rarely perch in open areas, making them a challenge to spot when not in flight.
White-tailed Kite
The White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) is a small but striking raptor commonly found in open landscapes of the western United States. These birds are predominantly white with soft gray upperparts and black patches on their shoulders. Their name comes from their long, pure white tail, which is most visible in flight.
White-tailed Kites prefer grasslands, marshes, and open woodlands where they hunt small mammals, lizards, and birds. They have a distinctive hunting style, hovering in place while facing the wind and scanning for prey. This behavior, known as “kiting,” makes them one of the most unique raptors to observe.
Although these kites are not particularly vocal, they produce a high-pitched “peee” sound when communicating. Their population is stable, and they are often seen in pairs or small family groups, particularly during breeding season. These elegant birds continue to thrive in regions with abundant open space and suitable nesting sites.
Black Vulture
The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a highly social scavenger found in the southern and eastern United States. It has a distinctive appearance with black plumage, a short, squared tail, and a wrinkled, featherless gray-black head. These vultures have shorter wingspans than Turkey Vultures but are more aggressive when competing for food.
Unlike Turkey Vultures, which rely heavily on their sense of smell, Black Vultures locate carrion by watching other scavengers. They often follow Turkey Vultures to carcasses and then use their superior numbers to dominate the feeding site. In addition to scavenging, Black Vultures have been known to prey on small animals, including livestock.
Black Vultures are monogamous and maintain strong family bonds, often staying with their mate for life. They nest in hidden locations such as caves, hollow trees, and dense vegetation, without using nesting materials. These vultures communicate using grunts and hisses, as they lack the vocal structures to produce complex calls. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in both rural and urban environments.
Gyrfalcon
The Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) is the largest falcon species in the world and an impressive raptor of the Arctic. The correct pronunciation of its name is “JER-falcon,” with a soft “J” sound. These powerful birds are known for their striking plumage, which varies from nearly all-white to dark gray. Their large size, broad wings, and strong build make them exceptional hunters.
Gyrfalcons breed in remote regions of Alaska and Canada, often nesting on cliffsides. They primarily prey on ptarmigans, but they also hunt other birds and small mammals. During winter, they may migrate southward in search of food, though their movements vary yearly.
Unlike many other falcons, Gyrfalcons do not make high-pitched calls. Instead, their alarm calls consist of a harsh “kak kak kak” sound. Due to their remote habitats, sightings of these magnificent birds are rare, making them a prized encounter for birdwatchers.
Crested Caracara
The Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus) is a unique bird of prey that blurs the line between falcons and vultures. While technically a falcon, its appearance and behavior often lead people to mistake it for a hawk. Adding to the confusion, Crested Caracaras primarily feed on carrion, much like vultures, and are often seen scavenging alongside them.
One of the best places to find Crested Caracaras is actually on the ground. Unlike most falcons, they spend considerable time walking and even running after prey, including reptiles, insects, and small mammals. They are also known to raid bird nests for eggs and young chicks.
In the United States, Crested Caracaras are mainly found in Texas, Florida, and Arizona, but they are much more common in Mexico and South America. Their distinctive black-and-white plumage, bright orange facial skin, and prominent crest make them easy to identify in the wild.
California Condor
The California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is one of the rarest birds on the planet and boasts the largest wingspan of any North American raptor, reaching up to 9.5 feet (290 cm). These massive scavengers were once widespread across the western United States, but habitat loss, poaching, and lead poisoning drove them to extinction in the wild by 1987.
Fortunately, an intensive breeding and reintroduction program saved the species from complete extinction. Biologists removed the first egg laid by each condor pair, encouraging them to lay a second egg. The first egg was raised by humans using condor puppets to prevent imprinting. By 1991, captive-bred condors were reintroduced to California, followed by Arizona in 1996.
Today, California Condors are slowly recovering, with over 300 individuals living in the wild. These birds primarily inhabit rugged mountain regions, feeding exclusively on carrion. Despite their enormous size, they are graceful fliers, soaring for hours without flapping their wings.
