bird of prey

noun phrase

: a carnivorous bird (such as a hawk, eagle, vulture, or owl) that feeds wholly or chiefly on meat taken by hunting or on carrion : raptor

Examples of bird of prey in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But cities are particularly difficult environments for birds of prey, Dinets notes. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 May 2025 Viewers can spot birds coming and going to feed their young, including birds of prey such as the peregrine falcon and merlin. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 15 May 2025 Wildlife officials at the time explained that such incidents, though rare, are not unusual, especially among birds of prey. Saman Shafiq, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025 On the other hand, raptors, or birds of prey, have lower reproductive rates and could take longer to recover. Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bird of prey

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bird of prey was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Bird of prey.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bird%20of%20prey. Accessed 31 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

bird of prey

: a meat-eating bird (as a hawk) that feeds partly or completely on the animals it hunts

More from Merriam-Webster on bird of prey

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