Raptors (Birds of Prey)

A large dark brown and white bird holding a fish in its talons, flying over water.
A Bald Eagle clutching a fish.

NPS Photo

Look to the Sky

Raptors are birds that swoop down on their prey, whether it be rodents, fish, or other birds. Some, like migizi (Bald Eagle), are commonly seen around the Heritage Center, from Mount Rose, or near the Historic District. Others, like the gookooko'oo* (Northern Saw-whet Owl), are easier to find by their sound in the deep forest. Look for ozaawaabines (a Broad-winged Hawk) along roadways, perched in trees to await small rodents in open areas.

*gookooko'oo (owl): the word in Anishinaabe sounds like the sound an owl makes.

 

Anishinaabe & Scientific Names of Raptors Around Grand Portage

NOTE: Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) names for plants, animals, and parts of the earth are very descriptive and often vary across communities. In some instances, there is a base name that is common and depending on the circumstance a speaker will add a bit more about the color, size, or actions that are observed.

Anishinaabe & Scientific Names of Raptors
Anishinaabe NameCommon NameScientific NameAbundanceStatus

Last updated: December 29, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 426
Grand Portage, MN 55605

Phone:

(218) 475-0123

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