Raptor/ˈræptər/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Catching Prey Raptor refers to birds catching prey with feet, not beaks. The raptor clutched the fish in its feet. Pro Tip 2/3Sharp Talons Raptors have sharp talons which are key to their identity. The eagle's talons are a raptor's primary hunting tool. Pro Tip 3/3Predatory Birds Not all birds are raptors; only predatory birds like hawks and owls. Despite its size, a heron is not considered a raptor.