Raptors of South Carolina
Raptors, or birds of prey, can be distinguished from other birds by three characteristics: strong grasping feet equipped with sharp talons, a hooked upper beak and keen vision. Raptors are called birds of prey because they hunt for their food. Some raptors hunt for and consume live animals while others scavenge carrion. Raptors consist of two taxonomic orders of birds. The order Falconiformes is comprised of falcons, hawks, eagles, vultures and related birds of prey. Falconiformes birds are daytime predators. The order Strigiformes is composed of owls which are adapted to hunt primarily at night.
Species Table. Raptor species of conservation concern in South Carolina. Conservation status from SC State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP 2015).
| Species | Scientific Name | Conservation Priority |
|---|---|---|
| American kestrel | Falco sparverius paulus | Highest |
| Bald eagle | Haliaeetus leucocephalus | High, SC Endangered |
| Barn owl | Tyto alba | Moderate |
| Broad-winged hawk | Buteo platypterus | Moderate |
| Peregrine falcon | Falco peregrinus | Moderate, SC Endangered |
| Red-shouldered hawk | Buteo lineatus | Moderate |
| Swallow-tailed kite | Elanoides forficatus | Highest, SC Endangered |
Additional information about the status of raptors in South Carolina can be found at the SC State Wildlife Action Plan website.
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