bird of prey

noun

1. any of numerous predacious, flesh-eating birds, as the eagles, hawks, kites, vultures, falcons, and owls, having a sharp, downwardly curved beak, talons, and, usually, soaring flight.

bird of prey

noun

1. a bird, such as a hawk, eagle, or owl, that hunts and kills other animals, esp vertebrates, for food. It has strong talons and a sharp hooked bill raptorial

Word History and Origins

Origin of bird of prey¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

More than 1,300 protected birds of prey – from hen harriers to golden eagles - have been killed across the UK over the past 15 years, according to the RSPB.

From BBC

Owens Viani said proponents had also hoped to create buffer zones around agricultural areas, where birds of prey forage and which are part of habitat ranges for mountain lions, coyotes and other animals.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s birds of prey, it’s quiet, you can hear running water’.

From BBC

Which variant the host birds learn depends on the abundance both of the cuckoos and of the birds of prey.

From Science Daily

He felt he was casting a spell on the detested bird of prey that would paralyze its evil force.

From Literature