• Key Information

  • Falcons

  • Species
    About 40, including Falco sparverius, Falco berigora, Falco tinnunculus, Falco peregrinus
  • Diet
    Carnivore
  • Length
    7.8 to 25 inches
  • Weight
    0.13 to 3 lb
  • Lifespan
    Varies, up to 6 years
  • Classification
    Aves > Falconiformes > Falconidae
  • Conservation Status
    Some endangered, others not
  • Habitat
    Many habitats
  • Learning Point
  • The falcon has long been used by humans, and has had a very close relationship with us. Fast and agile birds, they can be grouped into three or four main categories, including kestrels and merlins.
  • Project
  • Draw a falcon in flight.
  • Location
  • Places (Peregrine Falcon)
    Worldwide, except Antarctica
  • Fun Facts
  • Falcons are found on every continent, except Antarctica.
  • Falcons are not closely related to other birds of prey, and their nearest relatives are parrots and songbirds.
  • Falcon females are typically larger than the males, and many have different patterns and markings.
  • Falcons are used in falconry, where they are bred to hunt for humans. The American kestrel and the merlin are two common falcons used by beginners.
  • The Peregrine falcon is the fastest of all animals when it dives in its stoop, the fastest recorded at 242 mph.