Students in the birding and junior naturalist classes at Fulton Elementary were fortunate to have received a visit from the Friends of the Brazoria Wildlife Refuges and their birds of prey program.
Longtime friend Phil Huxford, along with falconers Will Lubrano and Marina Petrano, shared facts and adaptations common to all raptors or birds of prey. They explained that raptors are carnivores with keen eyesight, sharp talons, and powerful beaks designed for hunting.
Students learned that birds of prey are divided into two main groups: owls, hawks, eagles, and falcons. Some species are specialized hunters while others are primarily scavengers. Lubrano also discussed how peregrine falcons were known for their incredible hunting speeds, which he said can exceed 200 miles per hour…