Birds of Prey

Birds of prey are birds that pursue other animals for food. There are two different types of birds of prey, diurnal (active during the day) and nocturnal (active at night).

Diurnal birds of prey consists of hawks, eagles, vultures, and falcons. These diurnal birds of prey are also known as raptors which means "to sieze and carry off". The nocturnal birds of prey are mainly owls.

All birds of prey have hook-tipped beaks and sharp curved claws known as talons that they use to catch their food.

As you visit the park, see if you can spot one of these fascinating birds!
 
Black and white drawing of a Turkey Vulture
New World Vultures

A vulture is a scavenging bird of prey. There are New World Vultures and Old World Vultures.

Photo of a Red-Shouldered Hawk in its nest in a tree
Hawks, Eagles, and Kites

The Accipitridae are a family of small to large birds with strongly hooked bills and variable morphology based on diet.

Osprey flying while carrying a branch
Osprey

The osprey is a fish-eating bird of prey that lives in a variety of locations.

Peregrine Falcon sitting on a rock with its head tilted to the side
Falcons

Birds of prey are birds that pursue other animals for food.

Last updated: August 27, 2019

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Mailing Address:

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
National Park Service
PO Box 65

Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

Phone:

304 535-6029

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