Red-footed Falcon
NameRed-footed Falcon
Common NameRed-footed Falcon
Scientific NameFalco vespertinus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)70.5
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)160
Plumage DetailsAdult males are uniformly slate-grey over most of the body, with contrasting rufous-orange thighs and undertail coverts. They possess a dark grey head, bright orange cere, and vivid orange feet. Females and juveniles exhibit more varied plumage with rufous and barred patterns.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, rapid 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kik-kik-kik' call, often given when alarmed or around the nesting colony.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Eastern Europe and Asia, extending eastwards to central Siberia. It undertakes long-distance migrations, spending the non-breeding season in southern Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, slender falcon build, Adult male: uniform slate-grey plumage with rufous-orange thighs and undertail coverts, Bright orange cere and feet, Often hunts insects in flight, sometimes hovering, Gregarious, often seen in groups
Description
The Red-footed Falcon is a small, slender raptor known for its agile flight and gregarious nature. Males are distinctively slate-grey with rufous-orange undertail coverts and bright orange cere and feet. They primarily hunt large insects in open habitats.
