Water, shore and predatory birds

Birds of prey mostly hunt vertebrates. Hooked, sharp talons grip and kill prey, a strong downward-curved beak tears flesh, and the eyes are very sharp. They live in pairs, pairs of big species last for life; they nest in trees or on cliffs and have altricial chicks. Diurnal raptors include the black kite, the buzzard, the vulture, the eagle and the falcon. The black kite is recognised by its forked tail; it eats frogs, rodents, insects and carrion, and searches for prey flying high. The vulture is among the largest birds of our region: 1–1.5 m long, about 3 m wingspan, with sparse feathers on head and neck. It soars for long periods without flapping, looking for carrion; its talons are weak so it does not attack living animals, but its beak can tear skin. Raptors destroy pest rodents and insects and remove sick and old animals, keeping nature healthy. Owls hunt at night: large eyes with widely opening pupils see in dim light, sensitive ears, and soft, porous feathers that make flight silent. The eagle-owl is the largest owl, with ear-like tufts on its head, and eats rodents. The little owl is smaller, watches from a pole or dry branch in the evening, and is very useful by destroying beetles, locusts and rodents. Birds destroy pests, are food for many animals, spread seeds, and some pollinate; their meat, down and droppings (fertiliser) are useful. Some birds (chukar, pheasant, duck, goose) are hunted in the numbers and seasons the law permits. Bird protection means not disturbing them and not destroying nests; planting trees and putting up feeders in winter also help.