Lanner Falcon illustration
Birdsong field guide

Lanner Falcon

Falco biarmicus

The Lanner Falcon is a large, powerful raptor identified by its distinctive rufous crown and pale, lightly streaked underparts. It is a versatile hunter of open country, often filling the ecological niche of the Peregrine Falcon in more arid environments.

What it sounds like

A harsh, repetitive 'kak-kak-kak' when alarmed and a high-pitched, screaming 'kee-ark' during social interactions.

Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Rec. Olivier SWIFT · FranceCC BY-NC-SAXeno-canto

Field notes

  • Unlike the Peregrine's vertical stoop, Lanners typically hunt via horizontal pursuit or tail-chasing across open ground.
  • They frequently engage in cooperative hunting, where mated pairs work together to flush and intercept avian prey.
  • The species is a member of the 'hierofalcon' group, making it a close genetic relative of the Saker and Gyrfalcon.
  • While primarily cliff-nesters, they often move into abandoned stick nests built by ravens or other large raptors in treed areas.
  • Lanner Falcons have been documented following human hunting parties or other predators to snatch flushed prey in opportunistic fashion.
Habitat
Open grasslands, savannas, deserts, and rocky outcrops or mountain cliffs.
Range
Widespread across Africa, Southeast Europe, and parts of the Middle East.

Similar & commonly confused birds

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