Birdsong field guide
Brown Falcon
Falco berigora
A medium-sized, highly polymorphic raptor endemic to Australasia, distinguished by its long legs and relatively slow, heavy flight. Unlike many typical falcons, it frequently hunts on the ground and displays a wide variety of color morphs.
What it sounds like
A loud, raucous series of cackles, clucks, and screeches often compared to the sound of a donkey braying.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It displays extreme plumage polymorphism, with individuals ranging from very pale sandy-buff to almost entirely dark soot-black.
- Unlike most falcons that hunt in the air, this species spends significant time walking on the ground to hunt for insects and reptiles.
- It is a frequent 'fire-follower,' congregating at the edges of bushfires to snatch prey fleeing from the flames.
- Genetic studies indicate it is more closely related to the South American caracaras than to the typical falcons of the Northern Hemisphere.
- It rarely builds its own nest, instead opting to refurbish the abandoned stick nests of corvids or other birds of prey.
Habitat
Arid scrublands, grasslands, open woodlands, and agricultural areas.
Range
Throughout Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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