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16/10/2015
White-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) – An endangered species that lives in open-wooded savanna where acacia trees grow. A gregarious bird, this vulture scavenges at carcasses, rides on thermals and gathers at roosting sites. Numbers in decline due to hunting, persecution and poisoning. Image courtesy of berniedup
Lanner falcon (Falco biarmicus) – Feeds on doves, pigeons and chickens, using speed and surprise most effectively. Image courtesy ofTaraji Blue
Lappet-faced vulture (Torgos tracheliotus) – This raptor has a wingspan of almost 3m and has been known to attack a jackal when defending a carcass. Smaller scavengers depend on this bird to break open carcasses. The status of this vulture is vulnerable. Image courtesy of berniedup
Verreaux's eagle-owl (Bubo lacteus) – Found in savannah and forest where it feeds on mammals and birds. Considered extremely agile for its size, this raptor catches smaller birds in mid-flight. It makes use of stick nests built by weavers, crows and other raptors. Image courtesy of Derek Keats
Pel’s fishing owl (Scotopelia pel) – Largest of Africa's fishing owls, the Pel's is well adapted to hunting for fish. Its legs and toes are featherless, and its toes have spiky scales that help the bird grasp slippery, flapping fish. The call of the male is audible up to 3km away. Image courtesy of Derek Keats
Black-winged kite (Elanus caeruleus) – Prefers semi-desert and forested clearings where it hunts at dusk and dawn for birds and insects. Communal roosts in trees or reed beds may attract up to 500 birds. Image courtesy of Derek Keats
Cape eagle-owl (Bubo capensis) – Is capable of carrying prey that is four times its own body weight. Its diet consists of mammals, other birds and invertebrates. Image courtesy of Martin Heigan
African fish eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer) – One of Africa's most evocative sounds is the call of the fish eagle. This adept hunter lives mainly on fish that it swoops over and grasps from the water with its talons. It has also been known to eat crocodile hatchlings, insects and frogs. Image courtesy of Nodeworx
From: www.southafrica.net
By: Christine Marot
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