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Biggest Bird of Prey [2023] 25 Biggest Birds Of Prey
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Nov
Ever swooped by the idea of colossal sky conquerors?
Prepare for takeoff as we unveil the largest birds of prey, combining power, grace, and sheer magnificence.
Discover the thrilling world of these feathered giants and find out what makes them the ultimate aerial rulers.
Spread your wings and let’s dive in!
1. Andean Condor
The Andean Condor is a massive bird that’s native to South America. It has a wingspan of up to 10 feet, making it one of the largest flying birds in the world. Here are some quick facts about the Andean Condor:
- Diet: Carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: Up to 33 pounds
- Habitat: Mountainous regions of South America
2. Crowned Eagle
The Crowned Eagle is an impressive bird that’s found in Africa. It’s known for its powerful talons, which can exert a force of up to 750 pounds per square inch. Here are some quick facts about the Crowned Eagle:
- Diet: Monkeys, small antelopes, and other small mammals
- Weight: Up to 9 pounds
- Habitat: Tropical forests of Africa
3. Wedged-Tailed Eagle
The Wedged-Tailed Eagle is Australia’s largest bird of prey. It’s known for its sharp eyesight and powerful talons, which can exert a force of up to 500 pounds per square inch. Here are some quick facts about the Wedge-Tailed Eagle:
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and carrion
- Weight: Up to 14 pounds
- Habitat: Open woodlands and grasslands of Australia
4. Himalayan Vulture
The Himalayan Vulture is a massive bird that’s found in the Himalayas. It’s known for its large size and impressive wingspan. Here are some quick facts about the Himalayan Vulture:
- Diet: Carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: Up to 20 pounds
- Habitat: Mountainous regions of Asia
5. Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle is a well-known bird of prey that’s found in North America, Europe, and Asia. It’s known for its impressive speed and agility. Here are some quick facts about the Golden Eagle:
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and fish
- Weight: Up to 15 pounds
- Habitat: Mountains, forests, and open plains of North America, Europe, and Asia
6. Eurasian Eagle-Owl
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is a massive bird that’s found in Europe and Asia. It’s known for its distinctive ear tufts and powerful talons. Here are some quick facts about the Eurasian Eagle-Owl:
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and fish
- Weight: Up to 10 pounds
- Habitat: Forests and rocky landscapes of Europe and Asia
7. Harpy Eagle
The Harpy Eagle is a majestic bird of prey that’s found in the rainforests of Central and South America. It’s known for its massive size and powerful talons. Here are some quick facts about the Harpy Eagle:
- Diet: Monkeys, sloths, and other small mammals
- Weight: Up to 20 pounds
- Habitat: Rainforests of Central and South America
8. The Bearded Vulture
The Bearded Vulture is one of the largest birds of prey in the world. This majestic creature is also known as the Lammergeier or the ossifrage. The Bearded Vulture’s habitat is typically found in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas, the Alps, and the Pyrenees. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: Bones and carrion
- Weight: Up to 7.8 kg
- Wingspan: Up to 2.8 meters
9. The Philippine Eagle
The Philippine Eagle is one of the largest and rarest birds of prey in the world. It is also known as the monkey-eating eagle. This majestic creature is native to the Philippines and is critically endangered. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: Monkeys, lemurs, and other small mammals
- Weight: Up to 8 kg
- Wingspan: Up to 2 meters
10. The Martial Eagle
The Martial Eagle is one of the largest and most powerful eagles in Africa. It is also known as the polecat eagle or the African war eagle. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: Small mammals, birds, and reptiles
- Weight: Up to 6.2 kg
- Wingspan: Up to 2.6 meters
11. Blakiston’s Fish Owl
Blakiston’s Fish Owl is one of the largest owl species in the world. It is also known as the fish eagle owl or the bubo blakistoni. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: Fish and small mammals
- Weight: Up to 4.5 kg
- Wingspan: Up to 2.4 meters
12. Steller’s Sea Eagle
Steller’s Sea Eagle is one of the largest eagles in the world. It is also known as the white-shouldered eagle or the Steller’s sea eagle. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: Fish and water birds
- Weight: Up to 9 kg
- Wingspan: Up to 2.5 meters
13. Lappet-Faced Vulture
The Lappet-Faced Vulture, also known as the Nubian Vulture, is one of the largest vulture species and a top contender for the title of the biggest bird of prey. Here are some quick facts about this impressive creature:
- Diet: carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: up to 20 pounds
- Habitat: sub-Saharan Africa, with a preference for arid areas
14. California Condor
Another strong contender for the title of the biggest bird of prey is the California Condor, a critically endangered species that is native to North America. Here are some quick facts about this magnificent bird:
- Diet: carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: up to 26 pounds
- Habitat: rocky areas, canyons, and open grasslands of the western United States
15. White-Tailed Eagle
The White-Tailed Eagle, also known as the Sea Eagle, is another contender for the title of the biggest bird of prey. This impressive bird is found in Europe, Asia, and North America, and is known for its distinctive white tail feathers. Here are some quick facts about this bird:
- Diet: fish, waterfowl, and small mammals
- Weight: up to 15 pounds
- Habitat: coastal areas, wetlands, and lakeshores
16. Cinereous Vulture
The Cinereous Vulture, also known as the Eurasian Black Vulture, is a massive bird of prey that is found in parts of Europe and Asia. Here are some quick facts about this bird:
- Diet: carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: up to 31 pounds
- Habitat: mountainous regions, forests, and open areas
17. White-Backed Vulture
The White-Backed Vulture, also known as the Oriental White-Backed Vulture, is a large vulture species that is native to South Asia. Here are some quick facts about this bird:
- Diet: carrion (dead animals)
- Weight: up to 15 pounds
- Habitat: grasslands, forests, and wetlands
18. Verreaux’s Eagle
Verreaux’s Eagle, also known as the black eagle, is one of the largest and most powerful birds of prey in Africa. It can be found in the mountainous regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, and it preys on a variety of animals, including monkeys, hyraxes, and small antelopes. Here are some key characteristics of Verreaux’s Eagle:
- Weight: 4.5-6.2 kg
- Wingspan: 1.8-2.2 m
- Habitat: Mountainous regions
- Diet: Primarily small mammals and birds
19. Great Grey Owl
The Great Grey Owl is one of the largest owls in the world, and it is found in the northern hemisphere. This bird of prey has large yellow eyes and a distinctive grey and white plumage. The Great Grey Owl is primarily a hunter of rodents and other small mammals, but it has also been known to prey on larger animals such as rabbits and hares. Here are some key characteristics of the Great Grey Owl:
- Weight: 1.3-2.5 kg
- Wingspan: 1.3-1.5 m
- Habitat: Coniferous forests
- Diet: Primarily rodents and small mammals
20. African Fish Eagle
The African Fish Eagle is a large bird of prey that can be found near rivers and lakes in sub-Saharan Africa. This bird is known for its distinctive call and its ability to snatch fish from the water with its sharp talons. The African Fish Eagle is a powerful bird that is capable of taking down prey that is larger than itself. Here are some key characteristics of the African Fish Eagle:
- Weight: 2.5-3.5 kg
- Wingspan: 1.8-2.4 m
- Habitat: Near rivers and lakes
- Diet: Primarily fish, but also preys on small mammals and birds
21. Cape Vulture
The Cape Vulture, also known as the Cape Griffon, is a large vulture that is found in southern Africa. This bird of prey has a distinctive bald head and a powerful beak that is capable of tearing through tough animal hides. The Cape Vulture is a scavenger and feeds on carrion, but it has also been known to attack live prey. Here are some key characteristics of the Cape Vulture:
- Weight: 7-11 kg
- Wingspan: 2.3-2.6 m
- Habitat: Mountainous regions and grasslands
- Diet: Carrion, but also preys on live animals
22. White-Bellied Sea Eagle
The White-Bellied Sea Eagle, also known as the white-breasted sea eagle, is a large bird of prey that is found along the coasts of Australia and Southeast Asia. This bird of prey has a distinctive white belly and a powerful hooked beak that is used for tearing apart its prey. The White-Bellied Sea Eagle is primarily a hunter of fish, but it has also been known to prey on other animals such as reptiles and small mammals. Here are some key characteristics of the White-Bellied Sea Eagle:
- Weight: 2.5-4.5 kg
- Wingspan: 1.8-2.2 m
- Habitat: Coasts
23. Pallas’ Fish Eagle
The Pallas’ Fish Eagle, also known as the Band-tailed Fish Eagle, is the biggest bird of prey in the world. This majestic creature can be found in Eastern Asia and is known for its impressive size and striking appearance. Here are some quick facts about the Pallas’ Fish Eagle:
- Diet: Fish and other aquatic animals
- Weight: Up to 7 kg
- Habitat: Wetlands, lakes, and rivers
24. Griffon Vulture
The Griffon Vulture is another one of the biggest birds of prey and is found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. These birds are known for their incredible wingspan and impressive hunting skills. Here are some quick facts about the Griffon Vulture:
- Diet: Carrion
- Weight: Up to 11 kg
- Habitat: Mountains, cliffs, and rocky areas
25. Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle is an iconic bird of prey that is native to North America. With its striking appearance and impressive hunting skills, the Bald Eagle is a symbol of freedom and strength. Here are some quick facts about the Bald Eagle:
- Diet: Fish, birds, and small mammals
- Weight: Up to 7 kg
- Habitat: Coasts, rivers, and lakes
Did you know that are several dozen birds classified as birds of prey?
And, no, we aren’t referring to the 2020 film! We’re talking about actual birds here, people.
Speaking of which, it’s important to note that not all birds are birds of prey, but all birds of prey are birds.
This group of birds tends to include species that mainly consume vertebrates.
Often, these critters exhibit sharp vision, powerful talons, and a sturdy curved beak. This makes it easy for them to consume even larger animals.
Generally, vultures, hawks, eagles, falcons, and more are all birds of prey.
Narrow them down by specific species, and you’ll find that there are hundreds of birds of prey!
Birds of prey include the European Honey Buzzard, King Vulture, and the Crowned Eagle. You may already be familiar with some of these species.
But how about let’s familiarize ourselves with the largest bird of prey on Planet Earth?
Do you know which specie that might be? And, no, it’s not an eagle species.
We’re positive you’ll be pretty impressed when you meet the top seed (no pun intended)!
What is the Largest Bird of Prey in the World?
The largest flying bird of prey on our entire planet is the Andean Condor.
An adult Andean Condor weighs about 33 pounds and is approximately 3.9 feet in height.
Huge! It does sound like a preschooler, doesn’t it?!
Your average bird isn’t even half this weight or size.
It’s almost scary to think that a bird can be this large and weigh this much.
Which is the Largest and Highest Flying Bird of Prey?
Not only is the Andean Condor the largest bird of prey, but it’s the highest flying among these species.
This is partially to thank due to its massive wingspan of 10.5 feet. That’s about as long as the average compact car!
Still, this condor is second to the Wandering Albatross when comparing wingspans of all birds. This bird’s wingspan can reach up to approximately 11.48 feet in length.
Both, regardless, have massive wings!
In addition, this condor species can fly a whopping 21,300 feet. That’s pretty impressive.
To put this into perspective, most birds usually fly under 500 feet. However, sometimes the average bird will fly around 2,000 to 5,000 feet during migration.
Quick Facts About the Andean Condor
Discover more about this incredible bird in the following bullets.
The Andean Condor is currently “Near Threatened.”
This means that its population is decreasing rather than growing.
It was first featured on the Endangered Species list with this status since 1973.
The main reason for their Near Threatened status is because they’re frequently hunted. Often, they’re murdered by farmers for fear they’ll harm their livestock.
To make matters worse, these birds tend to reproduce slowly.
If this trend continues, the Andean Condor may be in the eventual danger of extinction.
This condor comes from South America.
These aren’t prey birds you’ll spot in the United States!
You can find the bird in the Andes range in South America.
They’re also found in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta or Santa Marta Mountains.
It’s classified as a New World vulture.
New World vultures have an intense sense of smell that helps them spot and hunt down prey.
On the other hand, Old World vultures must rely primarily on their sight went hunting.
However, this doesn’t mean that the Andean Condor is a newer bird. In reality, this bird has been around for several decades.
They Have an Interesting Diet.
These preying birds are typically attracted to already-dead critters. This makes them scavengers.
Normally, they eat up to 15 pounds of meat in one feast. (That’s a lot of food!)
But, you might be wondering, how can they consume raw, sometimes rancid, flesh, and survive? Wouldn’t they get sick?
Good question!
Actually, this condor is highly resistant to unhealthy bacteria. This allows them to consume large amounts of raw, dead meat without becoming gravely ill.
And what exactly do they eat, you might ask?
At the San Diego Zoo, Andean Condors get a rabbit, ground meat, rat, beef spleen, and trout as part of their daily meals.
It Can Live Up to 50 Years.
Different bird species have different lifespans. Truthfully, they can vary quite a bit.
For instance, Parakeets live up to approximately 15 years. The Harpy Eagle lives about 25 to 35 years. And Parrots can live 80 to 100 years!
But as for this condor, their slow maturity has provided them with a generous, 50-year lifespan.
What Does the Andean Condor Look Like?
As one of the largest birds to exist, you already know this condor is large in size.
But what other physical attributes does it feature?
Generally, they’re black in color and have a fluffy, white ring around their neck. They also have white marks on their wings.
In addition, you might notice that this condor features a bald, pink head. This allows for as little debris possible to accumulate on their head mid-snacking.
The males of this species also have a flesh-like lump towards the front of their head or caruncle.
Overall, Andean Condors are relatively easy to spot. If you remember the description well, you tend to know one when you see one.
What is the Biggest Among The Identified Birds of Prey in England?
The Andean Condor is easily the largest bird of prey in the world. However, it’s the White-Tailed Eagle in England.
This should be no surprise as the eagle is, after all, known for being a massive bird.
The White-Tailed Eagle is also called the Sea Eagle. And its scientific name is Haliaeetus albicilla.
You can expert this eagle to reach about 20 pounds max (females only) and up to 3.4 feet in length.
Besides the United Kingdom, the White-Tailed Eagle is also found in Eurasia. Russia and Japan are two countries where many live.
This eagle species prefers residing in temperate conditions. In addition, it loves living near large bodies of water.
What is the Largest Breed of Eagle?
The largest and heaviest eagle in the world known to man is the Stellar’s Sea Eagle. It’s also called the Haliaeetus pelagicus.
This eagle is somewhat similar in size to the Harpy Eagle or Harpia harpyja.
Specifically, the Stellar’s Sea Eagle weighs up to about 19.8 pounds and stands around 8.1 feet tall.
On the other hand, the Harpy Eagle can be up to 20 pounds (females only) and about 6.5 feet tall.
As one of the largest bird species and largest raptors, you bet that this fella is intimidating!
But nonetheless, this eagle species is intriguing and simply stunning in appearance.
You can find the Stellar’s Sea Eagle only in far-eastern Russian. It primarily resides on the Kamchatka Penninsula.
But, still, nothing beats the Andean Condor. It’s aggressive personality, and incredible size makes it king among other bird species.
It’s truly a unique and massive bird that we’re so happy to have apart of the animal kingdom!
Either way, each and every bird of prey species is a treasure of its own.
FAQs About Biggest Bird Of Prey
1. What is the strongest prey bird?
The Harpy eagle is considered the strongest prey bird due to its powerful talons and large size, capable of taking down prey as large as monkeys and sloths.
2. What is the second largest bird of prey?
The Andean condor is the second largest bird of prey, with a wingspan of up to 10 feet and weighing up to 33 pounds. It is found in South America and is known for its scavenging habits.
3. What is the largest bird of prey eagle?
The Philippine eagle, also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is considered the largest eagle in the world based on length and wingspan. It can weigh up to 20 pounds and has a wingspan of up to 7 feet.
4. Who is the king of birds of prey?
The Golden eagle is often referred to as the king of birds of prey due to its power, strength, and hunting prowess. It is found throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.
5. Which bird is stronger than an eagle?
The Andean condor, with its massive size and strength, is considered stronger than some species of eagles. It has been known to lift animals as heavy as 50 pounds and fly at altitudes of over 16,000 feet.
Final Thoughts About Biggest Bird Of Prey
The biggest bird of prey is an awe-inspiring creature that has fascinated humans for centuries. With a wingspan of up to 10 feet and a weight of over 30 pounds, these raptors are powerful hunters that are capable of taking down prey much larger than themselves. While there are several contenders for the title of the biggest bird of prey, the Harpy Eagle, the Philippine Eagle, and the Steller’s Sea Eagle are among the largest and most impressive. These birds play an important role in their ecosystems, helping to keep populations of smaller animals in check. Their sheer size and strength make them a symbol of power and grace in the natural world.
