Everyone loves a raptor!  We have quite a selection resident in the valley, as well as several more that migrate on their annual trips around the world.  Check these amazing photo's captured here in the Otter valley by our local photographers.

Take the Barn owls for example!  They are amazing hunters! They have some incredible adaptations that make them very effective at catching prey.   They are incredibly silent in flight, they have amazing hearing, incredible night vision, quick reflexes and a VERY strong beak!  Barn owls mainly feed on small mammals, such as voles, mice, and shrews, but they can also catch birds, insects, and other small creatures. It's fascinating to see how their adaptations make them such efficient nocturnal hunters!

Buzzards, on the other hand, are skilled hunters with a unique set of techniques.  They are amazing at soaring and gliding.  They have very sharp vision and will often be seen perching and waiting.  When they spot their prey, they will descend stealthily and pounce with their powerful talons and hooked beak.  Buzzards are opportunistic hunters, which means they will take advantage of whatever food sources are available. They are also known to scavenge when necessary, feeding on carrion (dead animals) when live prey is scarce.

Peregrine falcons are renowned for their incredible hunting abilities and astonishing speeds.  They primarily hunt other birds, including pigeons, doves, and songbirds, but they can also catch small mammals and insects. Their hunting prowess and incredible speed make them one of the most impressive birds of prey in the world.  They will often catch their prey by a high-speed dive (called "stooping").  Their eyesight is amazing and will often chase other birds in the air.  They have extremely powerful talons and a very efficient beak. 

Barn Owl with mouse	Buzzard with fleshy remains
Peregrine Falcon catching its prey	Little Owl with small rodent
Osprey with fish	Sparrowhawk on its kill
Tawny Owl with small rodent