With their broad wings and mastery of the wind, Accipitridae(Eagles, Hawks, and Kites) represent the divine coming to earth. Eagles soar with a sense of transcendence. Kites, like their namesake, seem to just float in the wind. Hawks swoop down from the skies to deal death to any unwary animal.
As masters of the sky, Accipitridae dance, spin around in cartwheels, grip each other’s feet and dive at each other. Gliding through the air like a falling leaf, They will, in a flash, capture their prey on the ground. At one with the sky, Hawks and Eagles build their nests on cliffs or high in trees. Accipitridae call upon the Spirits of the Sky to join with the Spirits of the Earth.
Eagles, Hawks, and Kites share many common characteristics. They differ from Ospreys and Falcons by their small heads, no necks, and large tails. With their sharp curved beaks and talons, Accipitridae can rip and crush prey. Unlike Owls, These Birds hunt during the day. In their hunting, Accipitridae catch prey on the wing or swoop down with talons extended. Striking true, Hawks go to the head of their victim.
As the primal hunters of the sky, Accipitridae are the top predators of their territories. Hawks pursue and kill live prey, while Eagles force Ospreys to give up their catches. They carry the power of life and death in their talons. Other Birds flee knowing that death awaits them. Only Great Horned Owl will contest any of the Accipitridae.
Taught as Chicks, Accipitridae learned how perilous life is. Wolverines like eating Hawk Eggs. Winds and storms blow down Kite nests with Young Chicks inside. Meanwhile, Hawk Nest Siblings kill and eat each other (referred to as “Cainism” after “The Bible” story of Cain and Abel). Cainism happens because more Chicks are born than the Parents can care for. Only the strongest and oldest of Accipitridae make it to adulthood.
Eagles, Hawks, and Kites are the primal life force. Soaring high on thermals with their broad wings, They command the skies. Sky dancing, Accipitridae are at one with the air. Then suddenly without notice, They drop out of the sky, and grasp an unsuspecting animal in their murderous talons. “Embrace life and death and become one with it”, Accipitridae command.
Take time to read what Individual Eagles, Hawks, and Kites have to teach.
Note: Larger Accipitridae are Eagles, Smaller ones Hawks. Kites have narrower wings. These Birds with Falcons (Falconidae), Osprey (Pandionidae), and Secretary Bird form the order Falconiformes, daytime birds of prey.
Conservation Note: Eagles are endangered and are protected worldwide. Kites are also endangered. Possession of Accipitridae' feathers is prohibited by international treaties.
Purchase books and DVDs on raptors from Amazon.com
Va. Carper
March 4, 2008