Raptors

Raptors are predatory birds that rely on keen eyesight and hearing to locate prey. Raptors use their sharp talons to seize and kill prey, and many have sharp beaks for tearing flesh. A lot of the raptors found in Delta require grassland habitats to find prey and shelter. Small mammals, especially Townsend’s vole, are abundant in tall grass fields and are sought-after prey for hawks (e.g., Northern Harrier, Rough-legged Hawk) and owls (e.g., Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl). Northern Harriers and Short-eared Owls will also roost in Grassland Set-asides and Grass Margins. Other raptors, such as Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, and Merlin, feed on songbirds, which they can catch within Hedgerows. One of the smallest raptors, the American Kestrel, will eat rodents, birds, and even large insects.