Saker Falcon
NameSaker Falcon
Common NameSaker Falcon
Scientific NameFalco cherrug
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)52
Weight (g)1100
Plumage DetailsAdult Saker Falcons have brown upperparts with paler feather edges, giving a scaled appearance. Their underparts are white to creamy, heavily spotted or streaked with dark brown. The head is pale, often whitish, with a faint malar stripe. The cere and feet are yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, rapid 'kya-kya-kya' or 'kek-kek-kek' calls, particularly when agitated, defending territory, or around the nest.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeThe Saker Falcon breeds across a wide range from Eastern Europe through Central Asia to Manchuria. It winters in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, often migrating south from its breeding grounds.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Pale head with faint malar stripe, Brown upperparts with pale edges, Heavily spotted/streaked white underparts, Yellow cere and feet, Powerful build
Description
The Saker Falcon is a large, powerful falcon adapted to open landscapes. It is known for its swift, level flight and impressive hunting skills, primarily preying on ground squirrels and other small mammals and birds.
