The diverse landscape of the Isle of Wight offers many suitable sites for a variety of Raptor species which are easily identified by not only their sleek, aerodynamic design but by the fact that most are larger than other birds, with a body length of between one and two feet and a wing span of up to around six feet.

Across the UK many species of Raptor have seen their populations decline over the past 50 years as a result of the degradation of once prey-rich habitats in the face of development and intense agricultural practices. However, the Island has remained sheltered to some extent with a great variety of traditional farming methods still in place and many hedgerows remaining intact.

What can you see?
The Island is home to the Peregrine Falcon, Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Kestrel, Little Owl, Long-eared Owl and Barn Owl.   Also, if you keep your eyes peeled and fortune smiles on you, you may be lucky enough to spot one of the rarer species that have been known to pop over and surf the Island's air currents from time to time. These species include the Red Kite, Osprey and even the Hobby on odd occasions.

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