Why do young avian predators often take larger quarry than is normal for adults of the same species?

The reasoning for young avian predators often taking larger quarry than adults is primarily associated with their growth and nutritional needs. Young birds are still developing physically and require more energy-rich food to support their rapid growth. This increased energy requirement pushes them to seek out more substantial prey, which can often be larger than what adults typically target.

Young predators may not have the same level of experience or hunting technique that adults possess, yet their sheer need for energy drives them to take risks by chasing larger prey. This behavior can be a crucial survival strategy, as hunting larger quarry might provide a more significant caloric intake necessary for their development.

Additionally, the competition aspect isn't as prominent for young birds. While it might be true that they do encounter competition with adults, their youthful energy and exploratory behavior lead them to pursue larger prey rather than focusing solely on smaller, more typical targets.

The notion that more skill is required to catch smaller birds is misleading, as smaller birds are typically more agile and evasive, requiring refined hunting techniques that young predators may not yet have developed. Therefore, the idea that young avian predators often target larger quarry aligns specifically with their increased nutritional needs rather than skill level.