Birds of prey, also known as raptors, are fascinating creatures with keen eyesight, powerful talons, and hunting instincts. While they are not typical household pets, some species can be kept by experienced falconers or dedicated bird enthusiasts under strict regulations. This list covers the most common and legally permissible raptors that can be kept as pets, highlighting their unique traits and what makes them suitable for responsible ownership. Whether you’re a seasoned bird handler or considering a new avian companion, understanding these species helps you choose the right raptor for your lifestyle and expertise.
1. Harris’s Hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus)
The Harris’s Hawk is renowned for its social behavior and intelligence, making it one of the most popular raptors for falconry. Native to the southwestern United States and Central America, this bird hunts cooperatively in groups, which translates well into training and handling. They are relatively forgiving for beginners due to their adaptable nature and manageable size, typically weighing around 2.5 pounds. Their striking dark brown plumage with chestnut shoulders and white tail band make them visually impressive as well.
2. Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
The Red-Tailed Hawk is one of the most widespread and recognizable birds of prey in North America, often seen soaring in open skies. Known for their hardy nature and adaptability, they are frequently used in falconry for intermediate to advanced handlers. They weigh between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds and have a distinctive reddish tail, making them easy to identify. Due to their size and strength, they require ample space and proper training to handle safely.
3. American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
The American Kestrel is the smallest falcon in North America, weighing around 3.8 ounces, and is praised for its vibrant plumage and energetic nature. They are suitable for experienced falconers who want a smaller, agile bird that can be trained for hunting or display. Kestrels are highly active and require a varied diet, including insects and small rodents. Their ability to adapt to captivity makes them a rewarding but demanding pet for dedicated owners.
4. Merlin (Falco columbarius)
The Merlin is a compact falcon, about the size of a mourning dove, prized in falconry for its speed and agility. Native to North America and Eurasia, Merlins are highly energetic and require a skilled handler familiar with raptor care. They weigh approximately 8 ounces and have a striking slate-blue back with a streaked chest. Due to their hunting prowess, they are best suited for experienced falconers who can provide appropriate training and environment.
5. Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
The Eurasian Eagle-Owl is one of the largest owl species, with a wingspan reaching up to 6.6 feet and weighing up to 10 pounds. Known for their impressive size and piercing orange eyes, they are kept by advanced bird handlers and falconers. Their imposing presence and calm demeanor make them a unique pet, but they require large aviaries, specialized diet, and significant handling experience. They are best suited for those with ample space and a commitment to long-term care.
6. Barn Owl (Tyto alba)
The Barn Owl is celebrated for its distinctive heart-shaped face and silent flight, making it a popular choice for educational displays and private collections. They are medium-sized owls, weighing around 1.5 pounds, and are known for their gentle temperament when properly socialized. Barn Owls require a secure, clean enclosure and a diet of small rodents. Their adaptability and relatively manageable size make them a good choice for experienced bird enthusiasts.
7. Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus)
The Lanner Falcon is a robust falcon native to Africa, valued in falconry for its speed, endurance, and hunting skills. Weighing around 2.8 pounds, they are energetic and require extensive training and space to thrive. Their striking yellow facial skin and dark eye markings make them visually distinctive. Due to their active nature and specific environmental needs, they are best handled by seasoned falconers with experience in high-performance birds of prey.
8. African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer)
The African Fish Eagle is famous for its majestic appearance and loud, siren-like calls. Weighing around 6 to 8 pounds, they are primarily fish hunters and require large, aquatic habitats. Their impressive wingspan of up to 8 feet makes them one of the largest raptors suitable for captivity, but they demand a high level of expertise and space. They are best kept in large aviaries with access to water and are suited for experienced bird keepers interested in conservation and educational displays.
9. Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi)
The Philippine Eagle is critically endangered and one of the most majestic and powerful birds of prey, with a wingspan of up to 7 feet. Due to their rarity and conservation status, they are rarely kept as pets and are typically part of breeding and educational programs. They require specialized care, large enclosures, and a diet of large birds and mammals. Ownership is heavily regulated, and they are best appreciated in professional conservation settings rather than as personal pets.
10. Black-Shouldered Kite (Elanus caeruleus)
The Black-Shouldered Kite is a medium-sized raptor with striking white and gray plumage and distinctive black patches on the shoulders. Weighing around 1 pound, they are agile hunters that primarily feed on rodents and insects. Their calm demeanor and manageable size make them suitable for experienced falconers interested in conservation and educational demonstrations. They thrive with a varied diet and ample space to hunt and perch.
How to Choose
Choosing the right bird of prey depends on your experience level, available space, and commitment to care. Size matters: larger species like eagles and owls require more space, specialized enclosures, and a significant diet. Temperament is also crucial; some species are more tolerant of handling than others. Legal considerations vary by location, so always check local regulations and obtain proper permits before acquiring a raptor. Finally, consider your ability to meet their dietary, environmental, and health needs—these are not pets for casual owners but for dedicated, knowledgeable individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are birds of prey legal to keep as pets? It depends on local laws and regulations. Many species require permits and are protected, so check with wildlife authorities before acquiring one.
- What kind of license do I need? Most countries require a falconry license or permit, which involves training, a demonstrated knowledge of raptor care, and sometimes passing exams.
- Can I keep a bird of prey indoors? Generally, no. Raptors need large enclosures, ample space to fly, and access to outdoor environments, making indoor keeping impractical and illegal in many cases.
- What do birds of prey eat? They primarily eat whole prey such as mice, rats, quail, and insects, depending on the species. Proper diet and supplementation are essential for their health.
- How much does it cost to care for a bird of prey? Costs include specialized food, equipment, veterinary care, permits, and enclosure maintenance, often running into thousands of dollars annually.
- Are birds of prey good pets for beginners? No, they require extensive training, experience, and commitment. They are best suited for seasoned falconers or bird conservationists.
Final Thoughts
Birds of prey are extraordinary creatures that can make captivating and rewarding pets for the right owner. However, their care demands a high level of expertise, responsibility, and legal compliance. Before considering a raptor as a companion, thoroughly research the species, understand your capacity to meet its needs, and ensure you are prepared for the long-term commitment. When cared for properly, these magnificent birds can enrich your life and contribute to conservation efforts, offering a unique window into the world of wild predators.
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