Raptors

Raptors or birds of prey can help control rodent population in the garden. Mary Schmidt from Lichterman Nature Center says all raptors are carnivores. They have three main features that set them apart from other birds: talons, a curved beak, and good eyesight. There are many different kinds of raptors including hawks, eagles, and owls and she talks about each kind. Most raptors eat small rodents like mice, rats, voles, chipmunks, or squirrels, which can all be problems for gardeners. Other raptors eat birds. The best way to encourage raptor populations in your area is to not use rodenticides as these poisons will build-up and kill the raptors eating the poisoned animals. Mary brought a live owl to show some of the features of birds of prey.

Related Videos:
Owls
Wildlife Friendly Gardens
Bird Feeders

Related Resources:
Attracting Birds of Prey for Rodent Control
Attracting Wildlife for Pest Control on Farmland
What makes a bird a raptor?

January 23, 2021