Accipitridae Menu
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Family Accipitridae
The Accipitridae family is generally coloured to blend in with their environment. Strong eyesight enables them to spot prey from afar. They have a waxy membrane covering part of the upper mandible. This is often brightly coloured. Body shape is varied. Juveniles often have plumage, which is very different from mature adults.
The Accipitridae family
- are diurnal.
- have exceptional eyesight.
- have strong talons.
- have large hooked bills.
- have males which are generally smaller than females.
- have yellow, red or hazel eyes.
ReferencesElphick, C., Dunning, J., and Sibley, D. 2001. The Sibley Guide to Bird Life & Behavior. Alfred Knopf, New York.
Howard, L. 2007. "Accipitridae" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. <http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/accipitridae.html>. Accessed October 29, 2009.
National Geographic Society. 1983. Field Guide to the Birds of North America. Kingsport Press, New York.
Howard, L. 2007. "Accipitridae" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. <http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/accipitridae.html>. Accessed October 29, 2009.
National Geographic Society. 1983. Field Guide to the Birds of North America. Kingsport Press, New York.
Note: The species listed within this family only represent species for which the Hubbard Collection has specimens. It does not represent all existing species within this family.