Brown Falcon
NameBrown Falcon
Common NameBrown Falcon
Scientific NameFalco berigora
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsPlumage is highly variable, ranging from dark chocolate brown to rufous brown or pale sandy brown. The individual in the image is a medium brown morph with a relatively plain face, pale cere and orbital ring, and some lighter mottling on the wing coverts. Darker morphs may have a more prominent dark malar stripe, while paler morphs can have streaked underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, cackling 'kek-kek-kek' or a repeated 'kree-kree-kree' call, often given when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout mainland Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, inhabiting a variety of open and semi-open habitats.
Identifying Featuresvariable brown plumage, upright posture when perched, pale cere and orbital ring, long tail, often hovers during hunting
Description
The Brown Falcon is a medium-sized, slender falcon known for its variable brown plumage and distinctive upright stance when perched. It is a common raptor of open country, often seen hovering or perched prominently on posts and trees. This species exhibits a wide range of plumage variations from very dark to pale sandy brown.
