Understanding the Unique Design of Raptors' Beaks

Raptors possess unique, hooked beaks that are specially designed for tearing apart the flesh of their prey. There are however subtle differences in the shape that reflects the specific natural history and feeding strategies of the main diurnal raptors.

Accipiters: Hawks and Eagles

Accipiters' beaks tend to be long, very sharp, and on each side of the upper mandible present a curve known as "festoon." This curve resembles kitchen shears or a garland shape. It prevents the meat from sliding away from the sharp, cutting edges made of keratin. Interestingly, the back corner of the mouth is fleshy and lacks cutting edges. This type of beak can efficiently tear to very hard skin, like a squirrel's hide, and disjoint the main parts of the prey.

Falcon's Tomial Tooth: Key Feature for Prey Dispatching

Falcons exhibit a unique feature known as the tomial tooth. This can opener-shaped notch on the upper mandible allows them to efficiently dispatch their prey. The tomial tooth fits perfectly into the cervical vertebrae of a bird's neck, and provides leverage to break long bones into smaller pieces.

Other birds also possess a tomial tooth. Parrots, evolutionary close to falcons, are well-known examples, but shrikes and kites have them as well.

Experience Raptors Up Close

Come see these amazing beaks at work in person during our falconry experiences! Witness the incredible skills of these birds as they demonstrate their hunting prowess. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for their unique adaptations and the role they play in the ecosystem.

All photos were taken by George Adkins during our Falconry Experiences in La Jolla. Thank you, George!