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Name: David
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Question:
I have heard that as an eagle grows old, its beak begins to curve to the extend that the eagle is not able to eat. Is this ture?

Replies:
All raptors, or birds of prey, including hawks, falcons, and eagles, have beaks that constantly grow. Normal wear of a healthy bird keeps the beak sharp and at appropriate length. Some birds have congenital defects that cause their beaks to not wear evenly and may then have a problem eating. Captive birds that do not have typical beak wear must often have their beaks "coped" or filed to simulate wear. I am not aware that age has any particular effect.

J. Elliott

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