Amur Falcon
NameAmur Falcon
Common NameAmur Falcon
Scientific NameFalco amurensis
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)67
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)142.5
Plumage DetailsThe male Amur Falcon, as pictured, has a dark slate-grey head, back, and wings, with a contrasting white throat and cheeks. Its undertail coverts are a striking rufous-orange. The cere, eye-ring, and feet are bright orange. Females are duller, with a dark cap, dark malar stripe, and pale underparts heavily streaked with brown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, rapid 'kik-kik-kik' or 'kew-kew-kew' call, often given in alarm or during social interactions.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in southeastern Siberia and northern China, undertaking one of the longest migratory journeys of any raptor, flying across India and the Arabian Sea to winter in southern Africa.
Identifying FeaturesLong-distance migrant, Bright orange cere and feet (especially males), Sexual dimorphism (males dark grey with rufous undertail, females mottled), Aerial hunting of insects, Slender build typical of falcons
Description
The Amur Falcon is a small, long-distance migratory raptor. Males are distinctively dark grey with rufous undertail coverts, while females are more mottled brown and white. They are known for their spectacular migration across the Indian Ocean to winter in southern Africa.
