Prairie Falcon
NamePrairie Falcon
Common NamePrairie Falcon
Scientific NameFalco mexicanus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)101
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)800
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy brown to grayish-brown, often with faint barring on the wings and back. Underparts are whitish with variable dark spotting or streaking, particularly on the flanks and belly. A distinctive dark 'armpit' patch (axillary) is visible in flight. It has a pale supercilium above the eye and a dark malar stripe below.
Vocalization / CallA rapid, harsh series of 'kik-kik-kik-kik' or 'kee-kee-kee-kee' notes, often given when agitated or defending its territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across western North America, from southern Canada through the western United States and into northern Mexico, primarily in arid and semi-arid open country.
Identifying Featuressandy brown upperparts, whitish underparts with dark streaking, dark 'armpit' patches (axillaries), pale supercilium, dark malar stripe, yellow cere and feet
Description
The Prairie Falcon is a medium-sized raptor of western North America, characterized by its powerful flight and hunting prowess in open, arid landscapes. It typically perches on elevated points like cliffs or utility poles to scan for prey before making swift, low-level attacks.
