Birds of prey, also known by the technical term raptors, are some of the most majestic and skilled hunters in the animal kingdom. This group includes eagles, hawks, owls, falcons, and vultures. While most people can identify full-grown raptors, many are unfamiliar with the terms used for baby birds of prey.
In this complete guide, we will cover:
- The different stages of development for young raptors
- Specific names for nestling and fledgling birds of prey
- Why distinguishing age groups among raptors matters
Learning the language around juvenile hawks, eagles, falcons and other raptors demonstrates an appreciation for the nuances of birding and ornithology. Let’s explore the array of unique terms for young birds of prey.
Common Types of Birds of Prey
There is a diverse range of birds of prey worldwide, each with its unique characteristics and habitats. Some well-known examples include:
- Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus): A symbol of strength and freedom, the bald eagle is an apex predator found in North America.
- Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis): This widespread hawk is known for its broad wings and distinctive red tail.
- Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): Renowned for its incredible speed, the peregrine falcon is one of the fastest birds in the world.
- Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus): A nocturnal predator with distinctive ear tufts, the great horned owl is a formidable hunter.
What Are Young Birds of Prey Usually Called?
Young birds of prey are commonly known as “eyasses” or “eyas” (singular). These terms are derived from the Middle English word “nyas,” meaning “nestling.” While “eyass” is often associated with young falcons, “eyas” can be used more broadly for young birds of prey in general. These fledglings are born in nests, often located in high places like trees or cliffs, providing them with safety from ground predators.
Stages of Growth for Baby Raptors
Raptors go through distinct phases on their journey to adulthood. Here are the stages of development for birds of prey from hatching to maturity.
Nestling Phase
Upon hatching from an egg, a raptor is completely helpless and relies on parental care. This beginning stage is known as the nestling or eyas phase.
Key Features:
- Downy feathers, incapable of flight
- Remains in nest full-time
- 1-3 weeks old
- Fed by parents
- Examples: baby owls, hawks, eagles
Fledgling Phase
Once a nestling has enough wing feathers to fly short distances, it becomes a fledgling. Fledglings start branching and flying but require food from parents.
Key Features:
- Gaining flight feathers
- Takes short flights near nest
- Begins branching/perching on branches
- 6-10 weeks old
- Still reliant on parents
Juvenile Phase
By mid-summer, a young raptor can fly competently and hunt, but lacks full adult plumage and still follows parents to learn skills. This is the juvenile phase.
Key Features:
- Adequate flight and some hunting
- Follows parents to improve skills
- Immature plumage
- 2-12 months old
- Semi-independent
Maturation
Finally, raptors reach full adult size and plumage by 1-5 years old depending on species. Eagles may take the longest to completely mature. Patience is required for baby raptors to transform into expert adult hunters!
Now let’s look closer at the terms for each growth phase.
Specific Names for Young Raptors
Different words help identify baby birds of prey at particular stages. Here are some specialized terms for nestling and fledgling raptors.
Nestling Stage Names
Term | Meaning | Example |
---|---|---|
Nestling | A young raptor still in the nest | Baby hawk in nest |
Eyas | A nestling hawk or falcon | Eyas peregrine falcon |
Eaglet | A baby eagle | Eaglet in aerie |
Owlet | A baby owl | Burrowing owlet |
Fledgling Stage Names
Term | Meaning | Example |
---|---|---|
Fledgling | A nestling that has taken first flight | Fledgling broad-winged hawk |
Brancher | A fledgling that perches on branches | Brancher horned owl |
Raptor Slang | Cute phrases for young raptors | Fluffy, squeaker, twiglet |
Why Special Names for Baby Raptors Matter
Giving distinct names to the juvenile phase of raptors might seem trivial, but it serves important purposes:
- Demonstrates an ethic of care – Using specific life stage terms reflects the tradition of respect towards raptors in falconry and birding.
- Enables scientific study – Tracking fledglings and nestlings generates data to inform wildlife conservation.
- Elevates appreciation – cute slang terms like “fluffies” show that young raptors deserve attention.
The next time you see a juvenile hawk or eagle, you’ll have proper terminology to describe it precisely!
Interesting Facts about Young Birds of Prey
- Young birds of prey often have different plumage patterns from adults, helping them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators.
- The mortality rate for young birds of prey is high, with many not surviving their first year due to various factors such as predation, accidents, or lack of food.
- Some species, like eagles, have relatively long juvenile periods, during which they continue to learn from their parents and develop their skills before reaching maturity.
FAQ
What happens when chicks hatch?
When chicks hatch, they have their eyes open and are covered with a coat of white, buff, or grayish down.
How do chicks receive food?
The female usually tears off small pieces of flesh from prey provided by the male to feed the chicks.
How do chicks grow and develop?
Chicks gradually eat more parts of the prey as they grow older and become fully feathered. They also learn essential skills for hunting and foraging.
What behaviors do eaglets exhibit?
Eaglets start wing-flapping, preening, grasping objects with their talons, and pecking at food. They also engage in play behavior and defensive behaviors when approached.
What happens during the fledging process?
The fledging process is when young eagles leave the nest and develop flight and landing skills. This happens around 12 weeks of age.
What can disturb the fledging process?
Human activity or disturbance can lead to premature fledging, which can be dangerous for the eaglets.
What can we learn from the development of young birds of prey?
Understanding the development of young birds of prey provides valuable insights into the fascinating world of raptors.