While every bird of prey is impressive, these beaked beauties soar above the rest. Prepare to take flight as we meet the largest, fastest, rarest and most powerful raptors in the world
Words Matt Ayres
There are approximately 10,000 species of bird on the planet, ranging from tiny hummingbirds to imposing ostriches. Among these avian wonders, an elite group has consistently fascinated and inspired humankind more than any other: the raptors.
These impressive flying predators, commonly known as birds of prey, are characterised by their talent for hunting larger vertebrates than most birds are capable of killing.
Each species of raptor has a particular set of specialisms, helping them to hunt, breed and survive in their chosen habitat. Large raptors like eagles dominate the food chain by using powerful wings, large talons and brute strength to overwhelm their prey. Other raptors, such as owls, use stealth to their advantage; keen senses, quiet movement and the cover of night allow these nocturnal birds of prey to thrive where others would struggle.
Despite their seemingly invincible anatomies, raptors aren’t immune to the human dangers that plague wildlife worldwide. Many birds of prey are endangered, some critically, although there is some cause for hope; conservation efforts have proven that raptors are resilient enough to repopulate their old territories and soar through the skies once more if given enough support.
Keep reading to learn about some of the world’s most remarkable raptors and the unique adaptations that allow them to rule the roost.
What is a raptor?
Raptor is another term for bird of prey. It’s derived from a Latin word meaning ‘to seize or capture’ and refers to the hunting style associated with these impressive predators. Raptors can usually be recognised by their powerful wings, sharp beaks and talons. Most are of a medium or large size and hunt alone to avoid competition.
Crowned eagle
The most powerful raptor
Few forest creatures are safe from the crowned eagle’s skull-crushing talons
While many raptors are known for their strength and ferocity, the crowned eagle is our top pick for most powerful. This striking African eagle dominates the forests it lives in, preying on mammals and reptiles up to five times its size and weight. It relies on a number of brutal killing strategies to take down prey: some victims have their spines snapped by the eagle’s large hind claw, while others may have their skull crushed within its vice-like talons.
Among the crowned eagle’s most noteworthy prey are antelope such as buckbucks and duikers – this raptor is capable of killing ungulates weighing up to 30 kilograms (66.1 pounds), tearing apart their bodies and carrying away chunks of flesh to eat over the course of several days.
Smaller prey species include monkeys, mongooses, feral cats, rodents, monitor lizards and even venomous snakes. One of t
