Accipitridae

Accipitridae is a diverse family of diurnal birds of prey that includes many well-known raptors such as hawks, eagles, kites, harriers, and Old World vultures. It is one of the largest raptor families and forms part of the order Accipitriformes. The osprey (Pandion haliaetus) belongs to a different family, Pandionidae, while New World vultures are placed in Cathartidae.

The family comprises a broad range of species that vary widely in size, plumage, and ecology. It is distributed worldwide, occurring in forests, deserts, grasslands, mountains, coastal regions, and even human-modified landscapes. Accipitridae members are generally characterized by strong hooked beaks, sharply defined talons, and keen eyesight adapted for spotting prey from a distance. They are predominantly daytime hunters, soaring on broad wings or perched while watching for movement.

Ecology and behavior vary by lineage. Many species hunt vertebrates, from small mammals to birds and reptiles, while the Old World vultures in this family are primarily scavengers that feed on carrion. Courtship tends to involve displays and nest-building in elevated sites such as trees, cliffs, or ledges. Most species are territorial and form monogamous pairs during the breeding season.

Conservation status within Accipitridae ranges from common to endangered, influenced by habitat loss, poisoning, hunting, and electrocution on power lines. The group is a focal point for ongoing studies in avian evolution and conservation biology due to its ecological diversity and global distribution.