Hawk Conservancy Trust: Birds Of Prey! Quiz

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Which of these birds of prey could you see in the wild in Britain?
- Caracara
- Lanner Falcon
- Golden Eagle
- Spectacled Owl
- Black Kite

About This Quiz

Birds are gorgeous, elegant creatures. Some birds are rare, while others are more common. This quiz will explain the Hawk Conservancy Trust: Birds of Prey. You will be asked which bird of prey you can see in the wild in Britain, what kind of falcon flies the fastest, and which bird of prey does the United States uses as its See moreemblem. Your score on this quiz will indeed fly high.

Hawk Conservancy Trust: Birds Of Prey! Quiz - Quiz

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2.

Where, in the UK, would you be most likely to see a kestrel hunting?
- In a wood
- Alongside a road
- In an open field
- In a public place
- Over a river
Correct Answer

A. Alongside a road

Explanation

kestrels hunt mainly small rodents, and this often makes them hunt over fields. However, roadside verges are often havens for small wildlife, as well as being the limit of safe movement, so there are often larger numbers of the Kestrel's prey concentrated there.

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3.

Which of the following birds of prey is British?
- American Kestrel
- Barn Owl
- Andean Condor
- Bald Eagle
- Eagle Owl
Correct Answer

A. Barn Owl

Explanation

The Barn Owl is British because it is a native species to the United Kingdom. It is commonly found in the countryside and farmland areas throughout Britain. The American Kestrel, Andean Condor, Bald Eagle, and Eagle Owl are not native to Britain and are found in other regions of the world.

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4.

How do you tell the difference between a male and a female kestrel?
- The male is bigger
- The female is darker
- The male has a grey head and tail
- They have different coloured eyes
- There is no way to tell
Correct Answer

A. The male has a grey head and tail

Explanation

The correct answer is that the male kestrel has a grey head and tail. This is a characteristic that distinguishes the male kestrel from the female. The other options mentioned, such as size, coloration, and eye color, are not accurate ways to differentiate between male and female kestrels.

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5.

The male Andean Condor has the biggest wingspan of any Bird of Prey - how big is it?
- 8 feet (2.4 metres)
- 10 feet (3 metres)
- 12 feet (3.6 metres)
- 14 feet (4.2 metres)
- 16 feet (4.8 metres)
Correct Answer

A. 10 feet (3 metres)

Explanation

The male Andean Condor has a wingspan of 10 feet (3 meters). This makes it the bird of prey with the largest wingspan.

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6.

Which of these falcons flies the fastest?
- Peregrine falcon
- Lugger falcon
- Lanner falcon
- New Zealand Falcon
- Eleanora's Falcon
Correct Answer

A. Peregrine falcon

Explanation

The Peregrine falcon is known for its incredible speed and agility in flight. It is considered the fastest bird in the world, capable of reaching speeds of up to 240 miles per hour during its hunting dives, known as stoops. This exceptional speed allows the Peregrine falcon to swiftly catch its prey in mid-air, making it the fastest flying falcon among the options given.

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7.

What bird of prey does the USA use as its emblem?
- American Kestrel
- California Condor
- Great Horned Owl
- Turkey Vulture
- Bald Eagle
Correct Answer

A. Bald Eagle

Explanation

The bald eagle is used as the emblem of the USA because it symbolizes strength, freedom, and independence. It is a bird of prey known for its majestic appearance and impressive hunting skills. The bald eagle has a white head and tail, which represents purity and innocence, while its sharp eyesight and powerful wings symbolize keen vision and swift action. Additionally, the bald eagle is native to North America, making it a fitting choice to represent the United States.

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8.

What do birds of prey use to catch their food?
- A net
- Their beaks
- Their talons
- A trap
- Their wings
Correct Answer

A. Their talons

Explanation

Birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks, and owls, use their talons to catch their food. Talons are sharp, curved claws located at the end of their feet, which they use to grasp and immobilize their prey. These powerful and sharp talons allow birds of prey to capture and hold onto their prey while they tear it apart with their beaks to consume it.

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9.

Which bird of prey has a silent flight?
- Kestrel
- Owl
- Vulture
- Eagle
- Harrier
Correct Answer

A. Owl

Explanation

Owls have a silent flight due to their specialized feathers. The leading edge of their primary feathers has a serrated edge, which helps to break up the airflow and reduce noise. Additionally, their feathers are fringed, which further muffles the sound of their flight. These adaptations allow owls to approach their prey silently, giving them a significant advantage when hunting.

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10.

How far can an owl turn its head?
- 90 degrees (quarter turn)
- 180 degrees (half turn)
- 270 degrees (three-quarters turn)
- 360 degrees (all the way round)
- It can just keep turning
Correct Answer

A. 270 degrees (three-quarters turn)
11.

On which continent would you see a Secretary Bird in the wild?
- South America
- Asia
- Australia
- Africa
- Europe
Correct Answer

A. Africa
12.

How many species of vultures live in the wild in Britain?
- None
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
Correct Answer

A. None

Explanation

There are no species of vultures that live in the wild in Britain. This means that there are zero vulture species found naturally in the British wild.

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13.

What is the largest bird of prey in the world?
- Lappet-faced Vulture
- California Condor
- Andean Condor
- Himalayan Griffon Vulture
- Great Grey Owl
Correct Answer

A. Andean Condor

Explanation

The Andean Condor is the largest bird of prey in the world. It has a wingspan of up to 10 feet and can weigh up to 33 pounds. It is found in the Andes Mountains of South America and is known for its impressive soaring abilities. The Andean Condor primarily feeds on carrion and has a distinct appearance with its black feathers, white collar, and bald head. It is an iconic and majestic bird that holds the title for being the largest bird of prey.

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14.

Which bird of prey can you see hovering by motorways in Britain?
- Buzzard
- Kestrel
- Barn Owl
- Tawny Owl
- Hen Harrier
Correct Answer

A. Kestrel

Explanation

The kestrel is a bird of prey commonly seen hovering by motorways in Britain. It has the ability to hover in mid-air due to its specialized hunting technique, which involves scanning the ground for small mammals and insects. This behavior makes it well adapted to hunting in open areas such as motorway verges, where it can easily spot its prey from above. The other bird options listed, such as the buzzard, barn owl, tawny owl, and hen harrier, are also birds of prey found in Britain, but they do not typically exhibit the hovering behavior associated with the kestrel.

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15.

What is the most important sense for a Barn Owl? 1. Sight 2. Smell 3. Touch 4. Taste 5. Hearing
- Sight
- Smell
- Touch
- Taste
- Hearing
Correct Answer

A. Hearing

Explanation

The most important sense for a Barn Owl is hearing. Barn Owls have exceptional hearing abilities which allow them to locate and capture prey in complete darkness. Their ears are positioned asymmetrically on their head, with one ear higher than the other, which helps them to accurately pinpoint the source of sounds. This sense of hearing is crucial for their survival as they rely on it to detect and catch small mammals, such as mice, even in low light conditions.

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16.

Which British raptor has a 'mewing' call?
- Buzzard
- Marsh Harrier
- Merlin
- Peregrine Falcon
- Long-eared Owl
Correct Answer

A. Buzzard

Explanation

The Buzzard is a British raptor that has a distinctive 'mewing' call. This call is often described as a high-pitched, cat-like sound. The Buzzard is a common sight in the UK and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, farmland, and moorlands. Its call is used for communication purposes, such as attracting mates or defending territories. The other options listed, such as the Marsh Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, and Long-eared Owl, have different vocalizations and are not known for their 'mewing' call.

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17.

Many owl species are described as 'nocturnal'. What does this mean?
- They only eat birds
- They can see in total darkness
- They have very good hearing
- They mainly come out at night
- They nest in hollow trees
Correct Answer

A. They mainly come out at night

Explanation

The correct answer is "They mainly come out at night." This means that owl species are most active and hunt for food during the nighttime hours. They have adapted to have excellent night vision and hunting skills, allowing them to be successful predators in the darkness.

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18.

The Bald Eagle is the national emblem of which country?
- Germany
- Brazil
- Russia
- USA
- UAE
Correct Answer

A. USA

Explanation

The Bald Eagle is the national emblem of the USA. It was chosen as the national bird in 1782 because of its majestic appearance, strength, and long lifespan. The Bald Eagle symbolizes freedom, power, and resilience, which are all qualities that represent the United States. It is often depicted on the country's seals, flags, and currency, making it a widely recognized symbol of American identity.

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19.

Which is the smallest owl in the wild in Britain?
- Tawny Owl
- Barn Owl
- Little Owl
- Long-eared Owl
- Short-eared Owl
Correct Answer

A. Little Owl

Explanation

The Little Owl is the smallest owl in the wild in Britain. This species is known for its small size, measuring about 21-23 cm in length. It has a distinctive appearance with a round head, short tail, and bright yellow eyes. The Little Owl is commonly found in open countryside areas, farmland, and woodland edges. It is primarily active during the day and feeds on small mammals, birds, and insects. Despite its small size, the Little Owl is known for its loud and distinctive call.

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20.

Which birds of prey mostly have bald heads?
- Owls
- Kites
- Falcons
- Vultures
- Eagles
Correct Answer

A. Vultures

Explanation

Vultures mostly have bald heads because it is an adaptation that helps them maintain hygiene. Feathers can become dirty and carry bacteria from the carcasses they feed on, so having a bald head makes it easier for vultures to keep clean. Additionally, a bald head helps vultures regulate their body temperature, as they often stick their heads into the carcasses they feed on, which can be warm and cause overheating. Therefore, vultures have evolved to have bald heads to aid in their scavenging lifestyle.

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21.

What is the difference between male and female Snowy Owls?
- Males are uniformly white
- Males have much darker eyes
- Males have bigger heads
- Males are lazy
- There is no visible difference
Correct Answer

A. Males are uniformly white

Explanation

Male Snowy Owls are uniformly white, meaning their feathers are completely white without any markings or patterns. This is in contrast to female Snowy Owls, which typically have some dark markings on their feathers. The statement about males having much darker eyes is not relevant to the difference between male and female Snowy Owls. The statement about males having bigger heads is also not relevant to their coloration. The statement about males being lazy is not relevant to their physical characteristics. The correct answer is that there is no visible difference between male and female Snowy Owls, except for their coloration.

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22.

Which of these birds is not British?
- Barn Owl
- Buzzard
- Tawny Owl
- Black Kite
- Red Kite
Correct Answer

A. Black Kite

Explanation

The Black Kite is not British because it is primarily found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, but not in Britain. The other birds listed (Barn Owl, Buzzard, Tawny Owl, Red Kite) can all be found in Britain.

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23.

Which of the following birds can see in total darkness?
- Barn Owl
- Tawny Owl
- Buzzard
- Little Owl
- None of them
Correct Answer

A. None of them

Explanation

None of the birds listed can see in total darkness. While owls have excellent night vision, they cannot see in complete darkness. They rely on their keen hearing to locate prey in low light conditions. Similarly, buzzards and little owls do not possess the ability to see in total darkness.

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24.

Which is the biggest?
- Tawny Owl
- Ural Owl
- European Eagle Owl
- Snowy Owl
- Great Grey Owl
Correct Answer

A. European Eagle Owl

Explanation

The European Eagle Owl is the biggest among the given options. It is known to be one of the largest owl species in the world, with a wingspan that can reach up to 6 feet and a weight of around 6.6 pounds. This owl has a large and powerful build, with a distinctive facial disk and prominent ear tufts. Its size allows it to hunt and feed on larger prey compared to other owl species.

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25.

Why do some vultures have such long necks?
- To make loud calls
- To reach inside carcasses
- So they can see over trees
- For necking with other vultures
- It serves no purpose
Correct Answer

A. To reach inside carcasses

Explanation

Vultures have long necks in order to reach inside carcasses. This allows them to access the meat and feed on the carcass more easily. Their long necks provide them with the necessary reach to get to the internal organs and tissues. This adaptation is crucial for vultures as it enables them to efficiently scavenge and consume their food source.

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26.

How many toes does a bird of prey have?
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
- Five
Correct Answer

A. Four

Explanation

Birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks, and owls, have four toes. These toes are arranged in a unique pattern known as the "raptorial foot." Three of the toes face forward, while one faces backward, allowing the bird to have a strong grip on its prey. This adaptation is crucial for their hunting and capturing abilities.

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27.

Ospreys mainly eat:
- Fish
- Rats
- Other Birds
- Small Mammals
- Carrion
Correct Answer

A. Fish

Explanation

Ospreys primarily feed on fish. They are skilled hunters and have adaptations that make them well-suited for catching fish, such as sharp talons and reversible outer toes that help them grasp their prey. They have a unique hunting technique where they hover over the water and then dive feet-first to catch fish near the surface. This diet choice is also evident from their physical features, like curved beaks that aid in tearing apart fish. Their preference for fish as their main food source is due to their specialized hunting skills and physical adaptations.

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28.

Which is the smallest owl at the Hawk Conservancy Trust?
- Little Owl
- Ferruginous Pygmy Owl
- Barn Owl
- Tawny Owl
- White-faced Scops Owl
Correct Answer

A. Ferruginous Pygmy Owl

Explanation

The Ferruginous Pygmy Owl is the smallest owl at the Hawk Conservancy Trust.

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29.

How does a Bateleur Eagle steer itself in flight?
- By canting or banking like an aeroplane
- By using its tail
- By turning its head
- By using only one wing
- By lowering one foot
Correct Answer

A. By canting or banking like an aeroplane

Explanation

The Bateleur Eagle steers itself in flight by canting or banking like an aeroplane. This means that it tilts or leans its body to one side in order to change direction. Similar to how an airplane uses its wings to tilt and change direction, the Bateleur Eagle uses this technique to navigate through the air. By adjusting its body position, the eagle can control its flight path and maneuver effectively in the sky.

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30.

What reptile is the Secretary Bird best known for eating?
- Lizards
- Snakes
- Iguanas
- Tortoises
- Komodo Dragon
Correct Answer

A. Snakes

Explanation

The Secretary Bird is best known for eating snakes. This bird is a large, terrestrial predator found in the grasslands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa. It has long legs and a distinctive crest of feathers on its head. The Secretary Bird uses its strong legs to stomp on snakes, breaking their backs and killing them. It then swallows the snakes whole. This unique hunting behavior has made the Secretary Bird famous for its ability to control snake populations in its habitat.

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31.

Which bird of prey is sometimes referred to as an undertaker?
- Black Kites
- Tawny Owls
- Black Vultures
- Eagles
- Egyptian Vultures
Correct Answer

A. Black Vultures

Explanation

Black Vultures are sometimes referred to as an undertaker because of their scavenging behavior. They are known to feed on carrion, which includes dead animals. This association with death and their dark coloration has led to the nickname "undertaker." Black Vultures play an important role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carcasses and preventing the spread of disease.

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32.

What does a kestrel do that many other birds of prey don't?
- Fly low to the ground
- Hover
- Fly silently
- Stoop
- Digest small bones
Correct Answer

A. Hover
33.

Some birds of prey eat carrion. What is carrion?
- A live animal
- A small creature
- Something already dead
- Insects
- Something carried in from somewhere
Correct Answer

A. Something already dead

Explanation

Carrion refers to something that is already dead. In the context of the question, carrion is the food source for certain birds of prey. These birds feed on the carcasses of dead animals, rather than hunting and killing live prey. Therefore, the correct answer is "Something already dead."

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34.

How do gymnogenes hunt?
- They hover like a kestrel
- They sit in a tree and wait until they see a rabbit
- They climb up and down trees looking for bugs
- They wait for something to go by
- They soar on thermals and stoop on their prey
Correct Answer

A. They climb up and down trees looking for bugs
35.

How can you identify a buzzard when it is flying?
- It has finger-like ends to its wings
- It flies in the same style as a kestrel
- It hovers
- It stays close to the ground
- You can't identify a buzzard
Correct Answer

A. It has finger-like ends to its wings

Explanation

Buzzards are known for having finger-like ends to their wings, which is a unique characteristic that sets them apart from other birds when they are flying. This feature gives their wings a distinct shape, resembling fingers or digits. Therefore, by observing the wing shape of a bird in flight, one can identify a buzzard if it has finger-like ends to its wings.

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36.

How did the secretary bird get its name?
- Because it runs around a lot
- Because it can type and has a good telephone manner
- Because secretaries used to carry quilled pens behind their ears
- Because they have long legs and eyelashes to die for
- Because of its call
Correct Answer

A. Because secretaries used to carry quilled pens behind their ears

Explanation

The secretary bird got its name because secretaries used to carry quilled pens behind their ears.

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37.

Which other bird of prey is the secretary bird related to?
- Caracara
- Vulture
- Burrowing Owl
- Eagle
- No other bird of prey
Correct Answer

A. No other bird of prey

Explanation

The secretary bird is not related to any other bird of prey. It belongs to its own unique family called Sagittariidae. This bird is known for its distinctive appearance and behavior, including its long legs and habit of hunting on foot rather than flying. While it may share some similarities with other birds of prey in terms of its predatory nature, it is not closely related to any specific bird in the given options.

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38.

What is a crop?
- A good harvest
- A plant
- Where the food is held before it enters the bird's stomach
- A bird of prey
- Regurgitated indigestible food
Correct Answer

A. Where the food is held before it enters the bird's stomach

Explanation

The correct answer is "Where the food is held before it enters the bird's stomach." This answer refers to the crop, which is an organ found in many birds that stores and moistens food before it enters the stomach for digestion.

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39.

Why don't vultures have feathers on their necks and heads?
- Because they will get too hot
- So they can keep clean whilst eating
- It helps them to see where they are going
- Because they find it difficult to clean their heads
- To attract a mate
Correct Answer

A. So they can keep clean whilst eating

Explanation

Vultures don't have feathers on their necks and heads so that they can keep clean while eating. Feathers would easily get dirty and covered in blood and other substances while the vultures feed on carcasses. Without feathers in these areas, vultures can easily keep themselves clean and prevent any potential infections or diseases that could come from the decaying matter they consume.

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40.

What colour is the cere of the mature Bataleur Eagle?
- Red
- Yellow
- Orange
- Green
- It changes colour
Correct Answer

A. Red
41.

Why do falconers often hood their falcons?
- To keep their eyes free from dirt
- To keep their heads warm
- To keep them calm
- To protect them from the rain
- For decoration
Correct Answer

A. To keep them calm

Explanation

Falconers often hood their falcons to keep them calm. By covering their eyes with a hood, it limits the bird's vision and reduces their stress levels. This helps in preventing them from becoming anxious or agitated, especially in unfamiliar or crowded environments. The hood acts as a form of sensory deprivation, allowing the falcon to remain calm and focused during transportation or when not actively hunting.

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42.

What is the main diet of the Bald Eagle in the wild?
- Fish
- Carrion
- Birds
- Mammals
- Reptiles
Correct Answer

A. Fish

Explanation

The main diet of the Bald Eagle in the wild is fish. Bald Eagles are primarily fish-eaters and their diet consists mainly of fish that they catch from rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. They are skilled hunters and use their sharp talons to catch fish from the water's surface. Fish provide them with the necessary nutrients and energy for their survival and reproduction. While Bald Eagles may also consume carrion, birds, mammals, and reptiles, fish make up the majority of their diet.

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43.

What is the name of the method used by falconers for releasing birds into the wild?
- Hacking off
- Sending back
- Hacking back
- Backing off
- Sending off
Correct Answer

A. Hacking back

Explanation

Falconers use the method called "hacking back" to release birds into the wild. This involves gradually acclimating the bird to the wild by temporarily housing it in a hacking box or enclosure in a natural environment. The bird is then allowed to fly freely from the hacking box, gradually gaining independence and adapting to its natural habitat.

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44.

What is currently the most numerous owl living in Britain?
- Little Owl
- Barn Owl
- Tawny Owl
- Long-eared Owl
- Short-eared Owl
Correct Answer

A. Tawny Owl

Explanation

The Tawny Owl is currently the most numerous owl living in Britain. This owl species is widespread and can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, parks, and gardens. They are known for their distinctive hooting calls, which are often heard during the night. Tawny Owls are adaptable and have successfully adapted to urban environments, making them a common sight in many parts of Britain.

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45.

What is the largest Old World vulture?
- Lappet-faced Vulture
- Cinereous Vulture
- African White-backed Vulture
- Cape Griffon Vulture
- Egyptian Vulture
Correct Answer

A. Cinereous Vulture

Explanation

The Cinereous Vulture is the largest Old World vulture. It has a wingspan of up to 3.1 meters and can weigh up to 14 kilograms. This vulture is found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is known for its dark plumage and strong beak, which allows it to feed on carrion. The Cinereous Vulture is an important scavenger in its ecosystem, helping to clean up dead animals and prevent the spread of diseases.

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46.

How many species of kite live wild in Britain?
- None
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
Correct Answer(s)

A. One
A. Two

Explanation

Because the Honey Buzzard is generally classified as a Kite, the absolutely correct answer is C. Two. However, since the Honey Buzzard is more popularly regarded as a Buzzard, B. One is an acceptable answer

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47.

What is carrion?
- A type of crow
- Dead meat
- Kinds of birds that carry their food
- A group of vultures
- A small aquatic mammal
Correct Answer

A. Dead meat

Explanation

Carrion refers to dead meat. It is the decaying flesh of dead animals that is often consumed by scavengers such as vultures and crows. The term carrion is used to describe animal remains that are left after the initial decomposition process has started. This can include carcasses that are partially or fully decomposed. Carrion serves as an important food source for various scavengers and helps to maintain the ecosystem's balance by recycling nutrients.

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48.

Where can you find an Osprey?
- Africa
- America
- Asia
- Europe
- All of these
Correct Answer

A. All of these

Explanation

Ospreys can be found in various regions across the world, including Africa, America, Asia, and Europe. These large birds of prey are known for their ability to thrive in diverse habitats, such as coastal areas, lakes, and rivers. They are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish, and are often seen near bodies of water where they build their nests on high structures like trees or man-made platforms. Due to their widespread distribution, Ospreys can be observed in all of the mentioned continents.

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49.

What makes a Bataleur Eagle unusual?
- It flies very high
- It has a very short tail
- It has very good eyesight
- It has a good sense of smell
- It lives in burrows
Correct Answer

A. It has a very short tail

Explanation

The Bataleur Eagle is considered unusual because it has a very short tail. This characteristic sets it apart from other eagle species, as most eagles have long, powerful tails. The shortened tail of the Bataleur Eagle may affect its flight and hunting abilities, making it unique among its counterparts.

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