falcon
1. Bird Name
English Name: Falcon
Scientific (Latin) Name: Falco
2. Appearance
Falcons have slender bodies and long, pointed wings, which allow them to fly at high speed and change direction swiftly. Their strong beaks have a ‘tooth’ on each side, which they use to kill prey. Their plumage varies, but most species are characterized by dark brown, grey, or black coloration, often with contrasting bars or spots. Falcons also have distinctive moustache-like markings on their faces. They have yellow to orange eye color. Both male and female falcons share similar markings, but females are slightly larger than males.
3. Size
The size of falcons varies depending upon the species. Small falcons, like the American kestrel, are around 24 cm (9.4 inches) in length with a wingspan of about 51-61 cm (20-24 inches) and weight around 80–165 g. The largest species, the gyrfalcon, measures up to 63 cm (24 inches) long, with a wingspan of 130-160 cm (51-63 inches) and weighs 800-2100 g.
4. Habitat & Distribution
Falcons are found all over the world except Antarctica. They are most typically found in wide-open spaces. Certain species are adapted to living in particular habitats ranging from arctic tundra to desert landscapes. Urban environments are also home to some species of falcons, like the peregrine falcon.
5. Interesting Facts
• Falcons are iconic for their fantastic hunting skills: they catch their prey in mid-flight.
• The peregrine falcon is known to be the fastest bird on earth reaching speeds of up to 240 mph during their hunting stoop (high speed dive).
• In many cultures, falconry, the sport of hunting with falcons, has been practiced for over a thousand years, and falcons are considered a symbol of courage and nobility.
6. Diet
Falcons primarily feed on other birds and small mammals. Some species (like the American kestrel) also consume insects and small reptiles.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Falcons are solitary birds, only coming together for mating and raising chicks. The falcons’ flight is fast and direct with rapid wing beats. The call of falcons is usually a series of short, sharp, shrill notes that increase in speed.
8. Conservation Status
Most falcon species are classified as ‘least concern,’ although certain species – like the bat falcon (Falco rufigularis) – are listed as ‘near threatened’ according to the IUCN Red List.
9. Lifespan
Falcons typically live up to 15-20 years in the wild. In captivity, where they’re safe from predators and other threats, they can live over 25 years.
10. Additional Notes
• Falconry has contributed to the English language in various idioms and words like ‘hoodwink’ and ‘haggard’.
• Falcons have a vital role in controlling populations of pests like rodents and other small birds.
• In certain regions, falcons suffer from loss of habitat and food shortage due to human activities, necessitating conservation efforts.
