Natural History

Accipitridae

The Accipitridae () is one of the four families within the order Accipitriformes, and is a family of small to large birds of prey with strongly hooked bills and variable morphology based on diet. They feed on a range of prey items from insects to medium-sized mammals, with a number feeding on carrion and a few feeding on fruit. The Accipitridae have a cosmopolitan distribution, being found on all the world's continents (except Antarctica) and a number of oceanic island groups. Some species are migratory. The family contains 256 species which are divided into 12 subfamilies and 75 genera. Many well-known birds of prey such as buzzard, eagles, harriers, hawks, kites, and Old World vultures are included in this group. The osprey is usually placed in a separate family (Pandionidae), as is the secretary bird (Sagittariidae); the New World vultures are also usually now regarded as a separate family (Cathartidae) or order. Karyotype data indicate the accipitrids analysed are indeed a distinct monophyletic group.

Also on this shelf

See also

• ▸European jackal
• ▸Magdalene with the Smoking Flame
• ▸Aqualate Mere

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