The bald eagle is the only eagle unique to North America. They can be found along coastlines, lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshes. The Bald Eagle’s primary diet is fish—they have spiny scales and sharp talons to hang on to their slippery bodies. Bald Eagles will also hunt rabbits, squirrels, other birds, and even young deer.

You won’t hear the typical “hoot” from a barn owl! These ghostly pale birds are known making eerie, raspy calls in the middle of the night. They have incredible low-light vision, but it’s their hearing that is truly impressive. Their ability to locate prey by sound is the best of any animal that has ever been tested. Once they’ve found it, they swallow their prey whole—bones and all!

Black vultures differ from other types of vultures in their compact bodies, short tails, and strong wing beats. They are highly social and very loyal to their family groups. Though black vultures can only be found in North and South America, the oldest fossils, dating back 34 million years, were found in Europe. Finally, even though black vultures eat other animals, they are not technically birds of prey because they do not hunt with their feet—they principally scavenge on carrion. You can see our black vulture, named Attila, in Howl to Coexist.

These birds are the most social of North American raptors, cooperating in the nest and hunting in groups. They are more comfortable around humans than many birds. Young hawks can be found playing make believe—they will chase insects and jump on sticks in an imitation of hunting. You can see one of Busch Garden Williamsburg's Harris’s hawks, Diane, at our Howl to Coexist show.

Eurasian Eagle Owls are one of the largest species of owl in the world with a wingspan of over six feet! Eagle Owls have a very distinct look including their feathered talons and signature orange eyes. They can be found in many habitats, but prefer mountains, forests, and other remote places. You can see Busch Gardens’ Eurasian Eagle Owl, Inara, on the pathways with our animal care specialists.