Not to eat non-kosher fowl

This mitzvah prohibits eating any species of bird that the Torah designates as non-kosher. The Torah lists twenty-four forbidden birds, which include birds of prey and scavengers, such as the eagle, owl, vulture, and raven. All other birds are permitted only if they are known through an unbroken tradition (mesorah) to be kosher. This mitzvah refines our eating habits and maintains the sanctity of the Jewish people through careful dietary separation.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Ma’achalot Asurot 1:14–15): States that birds are not defined by signs alone but by tradition—if a species is known to be kosher, it is permitted; if not, it is forbidden.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 158): The root is to distance Israel from cruelty and predatory traits symbolized by birds of prey, preserving spiritual sensitivity.
• Talmud (Chullin 61a): Notes that kosher birds are identified by non-predatory behavior, possession of specific physical traits, and established tradition.