What can prolonged exposure to direct sun in hot weather lead to in raptors?

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight in hot weather can indeed be fatal to raptors. These birds are particularly susceptible to heat stress due to their high metabolic rates and limited mechanisms for heat dissipation. When a raptor is exposed to excessive heat without adequate hydration or the ability to cool down, it can suffer from severe dehydration, organ failure, and potentially death.

The physiological toll that high temperatures take on a raptor includes elevated body temperatures, increased heart rates, and impaired ability to maintain their normal functions. These stressors highlight the importance of environmental control for raptors, especially during extended outdoor periods. Ensuring they have access to shade, water, and cooler conditions is critical in preventing such dire outcomes. This understanding emphasizes the need for falconers and any caretakers of raptors to be vigilant about temperature regulation and hydration to promote the health and safety of these birds.