RAPTORS
Raptors are the true hunters of the sky. Also called Birds of Prey this group of birds have evolved to hunt and eat other animals. Although other birds eat animal matter this birds show adaptations that make them the most efficient hunters in the air.
Raptors do not belong to a single order or family. There is much ongoing debate as to the exact taxonomy of raptors. Traditionally they were placed in one order Falconiformes. Today the order has been split between Falconformes (falcons), Acciptriformes (hawks,eagles and Old World vultures). The Cathartidae (New World vultures) has been placed both in Accipitriformes and Ciconiiformes, the storks.
The name raptor comes from the Latin rapere meaning to seize or grasp. This refers to the powerful grasping feet possessing sharp talons found on most raptors.
Raptors do not belong to a single order or family. There is much ongoing debate as to the exact taxonomy of raptors. Traditionally they were placed in one order Falconiformes. Today the order has been split between Falconformes (falcons), Acciptriformes (hawks,eagles and Old World vultures). The Cathartidae (New World vultures) has been placed both in Accipitriformes and Ciconiiformes, the storks.
The name raptor comes from the Latin rapere meaning to seize or grasp. This refers to the powerful grasping feet possessing sharp talons found on most raptors.
|
|
|
RCP
|
