Rap-tor (rap’-tər) n.
[Latin, from rapere, to seize] Any of various birds of prey, including hawks, eagles, falcons and owls, distinguished by strong hooked beaks and taloned feet.
Raptors are an important part of nature’s intricate system of checks and balances. They help maintain stability in the living world, and it is important to preserve them for their biological significance alone. Furthermore, they are beautiful and intriguing creatures, the epitome of wildness and freedom; their very existence adds quality to our lives.