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Kites, Hawks, Eagles, Etc.

Order Birds of Prey

A loud, startling cry; powerful legs and feet for striking at prey; the hind fourth toe as long as the others, for grasping; sharp, decurved nails or talons, indicate the extreme of ferocity among the feathered tribes. Small mammals, reptiles, batrachians, and insects make up a far larger proportion of this family's food than birds and poultry, although agriculturists generally little appreciate its great service in protecting their crops. Solitary birds of freedom, they hold themselves high aloof from the world; nevertheless, eagerly vigilant, their wonderfully acute eyes keep constantly alert for food. Flocks are occasionally seen, but in the act of migrating only, for they are not truly gregarious, like vultures. Some species remain mated for life, and become strongly attached to a nesting site, where they return year after year, a pair preempting an entire neighborhood.