What is a raptor?

What is a raptor?

• A. A raptor is a type of small insect.
• B. A raptor is a bird that only eats fruit.
• C. A raptor is a bird of prey that hunts and feeds on other animals, characterized by keen eyesight and sharp talons.
• D. A raptor is a mammal that hunts at night.

Answer: (C)

Raptor refers to a bird of prey—an animal that hunts and feeds on other animals. Raptors have adaptations that make them efficient hunters: extremely keen eyesight to spot prey from a distance, and sharp talons and a hooked beak for grabbing and tearing prey. They include species like eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. This description fits best because it captures the predatory nature and the key physical traits that define raptors. They’re not small insects, they’re not birds that only eat fruit, and they’re not mammals, so those options don’t match the idea of a raptor.