Which sense do raptors primarily rely on while hunting?

Raptors primarily rely on sight while hunting due to their exceptional visual acuity. Their eyes are adapted to detect even the slightest movements from great distances, allowing them to spot prey while soaring high in the sky. Many raptors have a high density of photoreceptor cells in their retinas, which enables them to see fine details and distinguish colors better than humans. This keen eyesight is crucial for pinpointing small animals or movement on the ground.

While other senses, such as hearing, can play a role in a raptor's ability to locate prey, particularly in the case of owls which hunt in low light, vision remains the predominant sense for most raptors. They can scan vast landscapes and identify potential prey with remarkable precision. The structures of their eyes and the way their vision works are key adaptations that support their hunting strategies, making sight the most critical sense in their predatory behavior.