The word raptor comes from the Latin word “rapere” which mean to seize or plunder. Today, the word is used to describe a group of birds also known as birds of prey. In Idaho, 31 species of raptors can be found. Seventeen species of diurnal raptors (hawks, eagles, and falcons) and 14 species of nocturnal raptors (owls).  The river system above Idaho Falls produces over half of Idaho’s bald eagles and one third of the Yellowstone area bald eagles.