About Hawks, Eagles and Allies

Overview

Accipitriformes are the diurnal birds of prey: hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, vultures and the secretary bird, a major order of 263 species found on every continent except Antarctica. They are united by a hooked bill, powerful talons and keen eyesight, and are apex predators of nearly every terrestrial habitat. Many are threatened by poisoning and habitat loss, and they are central to conservation and environmental monitoring.

Classification

The order Hawks, Eagles and Allies (Latin: ACCIPITRIFORMES) comprises 4 families and roughly 263 living species. It is one of 44 orders that make up the class Aves.

Diversity & Distribution

Accipitriformes are the diurnal birds of prey: hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, vultures and the secretary bird, a major order of 263 species found on every continent except Antarctica.

Notable Families

Kites, Hawks, Eagles, New World Vultures, Secretarybird, Osprey and others.