Feet Most raptors have three toes pointed forward and one toe directed backward. Owls and ospreys have a reversible outer toe, which means they can turn it to the front or to the rear. The Earth Needs Raptors Raptors have an important niche, or occupation, in the environment. By hunting and catching prey, they control populations of rodents and other animals that would otherwise become too large. Raptors also prey on weak and unhealthy animals.
Birds of prey are necessary to keep the earth in balance.
All raptors are protected by state and federal laws. It is illegal to harm them or to keep them in captivity without special permits. Even with this protection, many raptors are declining in numbers, and some are listed as rare and endangered species. Loss of habitat, pollution, pesticides and illegal hunting are the main causes. Raptor Population Restoration Projects to restore raptor populations are under way in many states.