412 BIRDS OF PKEY. 



Fir.sT Order. Birds of Prey. 

 Raptores* or AcCIPITRES.-t* 



Tlie Raptorial Birds are at once recognized by 

 their beak, which is hooked and terminated by a sharp 

 })oint bent downwards, and by their feet being very 

 strc^ng and armed with formidable talons. 



They are divided into the Diurnal, or those that 

 fiy by day, and the Nocturnal, or those tliat fly only 

 In' night. 



Family of Diurnal Birds of Prey. 



FrC. 339.— BEAK OF FALCON. 



At the head of this rapacious tribe may be 

 placed 



The Eagles {Aquila), distingmshed by having their legs feathered 

 to the roots of their toes, and their wings reaching to the extremity 

 of theur tail. Their vision is wonderfully extensive, and they are 

 said to be able to look at the unclouded sun. These birds are re- 

 markable for the nobleness of their bearing and for their daring 

 courage. They are endowed with powerful limbs, are fond of carnage, 

 and, in general, prefer attacking animals of considerable size. It 

 is only when pressed by hunger that they assail small birds, and 

 will not eat carrion even when in a state of absolute want. Eagles 



* Kaptor, a seizer or maicher. 



t Accipiter, a hawk, from accipio, to take hij force. 



