Birds of prey, or raptors, are specially suited to their lives as hunters. Their strong legs and powerful grasping feet with sharp talons help them catch and kill prey. Hooked bills help tear the meat. Hawks, falcons, eagles and owls are an important part of the balance of nature because they help keep insect and rodent populations in check. American Kestrel, Osprey, Cooper’s Hawk, Turkey Vulture, Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Red-tailed Hawk are among them.