North Carolina Birds of Prey: Where to see them, where to learn about them
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| Carolina Raptor Center's Eastern Screech Owl, "Akai" in National Geographic's Photo of the Day Photo: Jis Jose, http://on.natgeo.com/YwcRGQ |
North Carolina is home to a variety of birds of prey such as osprey, barred owls, red tailed hawks, the American kestrel, and the famous bald eagle. In fact, our very own Jordan Lake is home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in North America.
Defining Features: Birds of prey, such as hawks and owls hunt for food during flight and primarily feed on other vertebrates. They tend to be larger than other birds and have substantial talons and beaks adapted for consuming their prey. They are also known for their keen senses such as vision, that help them home in on small prey from the air. Hence the expression "eagle eyes" as eagles have vision estimated to be 4-8 times stronger than the human eye.
Ecological Significance: Birds of prey are considered to be at the top of the food chain. Top predators serve as good ecological indicators because they are impacted more from environmental pressures than other predators. So a healthy population of birds of prey, can be an indication of a healthy ecosystem. They also serve to limit the population of rodents such as rats and mice.
To learn more about our birds of prey check out these events and places:
Hawks, Eagles and Owls- An introduction to the Birds of Prey
Sunday, Mar 31, 2013 2 PM to 3 PM
Lake James State Park, Nebo
North Carolina has a wide diversity of birds of prey – from the diminutive screech owl to the majestic bald eagle. Learn more about their amazing habits, migrations and folklore with Park Ranger Jamie Cameron.
Raptor's Rapport
Tuesday, April 2, 2013 11 AM to 12 PM
Clark Park Nature Center, Fayetteville
Get to know about raptors with the assistance of some live birds of prey. They will help you learn about how they hunt, live and what makes them special. All ages.
Complete Details
Complete Details
Jordan Lake Eagle Cam (This is awesome!)
This realtime cam is situated over a bald eagle's nest. The pair of bald eagles has had 19 fledglings since 2002. You can tune in to see what's happening at the nest any time of day, or you can watch significant videos such as the pair discarding an egg that wouldn't hatch.
Carolina Raptor Center
Visit the center, near Charlotte, where they rehabilitate birds of prey and have exhibits and programs for the general public to learn more about raptors.
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