What can prolonged exposure to direct sunlight in hot weather do to raptors?

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight in hot weather can be particularly dangerous for raptors due to their physiological needs and adaptations. These birds are not well-equipped to handle extreme heat for extended periods. Direct sunlight can lead to overheating, which can impair their bodily functions. As warm-blooded animals, raptors rely on specific temperature ranges to maintain their health and perform vital functions like hunting and digesting food.

In conditions of extended heat exposure, raptors may suffer from heat stress or heat stroke, which can disrupt their metabolic processes. This critical condition can result in severe consequences, including organ failure or death, if not mitigated in a timely fashion. Thus, the risk posed by heat can be life-threatening, making it essential for falconers to provide adequate shade and water for their birds during hot weather to prevent fatal outcomes.