Black-thighed Falconet
NameBlack-thighed Falconet
Common NameBlack-thighed Falconet
Scientific NameMicrohierax fringillarius
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)42.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black upperparts, head, and thighs. They feature a prominent white forehead, supercilium, and cheeks, contrasting with a black eye-stripe. The underparts are white, transitioning to rufous on the flanks and belly. The tail is black with white barring on the inner webs of the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include high-pitched, rapid 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kli-kli-kli' calls, often given in flight or from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Southeast Asia, ranging from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.
Identifying Featuresextremely small size for a raptor, glossy black upperparts, white face with black eye-stripe, rufous flanks and belly, black thighs
Description
The Black-thighed Falconet is one of the smallest raptors in the world, known for its swift, agile flight and insectivorous diet. It typically perches conspicuously on dead branches or treetops, scanning for prey.
