What Do Birds of Prey Eat?
Birds of prey such as falcons, hawks, owls and eagles are carnivorous hunters that eat whole prey animals. In the wild their diet includes small mammals, birds and other animals that provide complete nutrition.
In captivity, birds of prey are commonly fed frozen-thawed prey such as chicks, quail, rats and rabbits. Whole prey provides a balanced source of protein, calcium and essential nutrients.
Common Prey for Birds of Prey
Typical foods for captive raptors include:
• chicks
• quail
• mice
• rats
• rabbits
These prey items contain muscle, bones and organs which provide complete nutrition.
Why Whole Prey Is Important
Whole prey feeding provides a natural diet that includes:
• calcium from bones
• nutrients from organs
• balanced protein sources
This closely mimics the natural diet of wild birds of prey.
Frozen Feeders for Raptors
Many falconers and raptor keepers feed frozen-thawed prey.
Frozen feeders are:
• easy to store
• convenient to prepare
• safe to handle
• widely used by professional falconers