The Longwings
This group of raptors refer to the falcons. Traditionally they prefer the open spaces of the country side but have adapted well within city limits making tall building their lookout posts.
Longwings have long narrow pointed wings. They thrive in air currents gliding at high altitude surveying from high above. These long wings have a disadvantage as they cannot move them quickly. To overcome this they fold their wings in to accelerate into a dive to attain high speed. With their streamlined profile they eliminate drag becoming a feathered missile. They need not hit the ground in a stoop as the impact will be to great. Success in hunting is totally dependant on speed. Their legs are short with long narrow toes.
Falcons have dark round eyes huge in relation to the size of their head. In the beak is a small notch also referred to as the “beak tooth” which is used to break the neck of the prey. Within the nose nostrils is a tip in the centre to enable breathing when diving at high speed.
Among the falcons are the bird catching, intercepting specialists as well as birds that will take prey in the air as well as on the ground.
