The Accipitres (Accipitridae) are the birds of prey order of the Aves (birds) class of animals. They are characterised by a strong, crooked beak with an acute, downward curving point with sharp edges. The base of the beak is enveloped in a naked skin (the cere) in which the nostrils are placed. The feet are muscular. The toes are armed with powerful talons, long, curved and pointed, of which those of the hind and innermost toes are the strongest. The wings are adapted for vigorous, lofty and long-sustained flight. Research Accipitres
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Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Nature
Research Accipitres
