Falco subniger
The Black Falcon (Falco subniger) is a striking and powerful raptor endemic to mainland Australia, renowned for its uniform dark plumage, which gives it an almost monolithic appearance. This large falcon, typically measuring 45-55 cm in length with a wingspan of 95-115 cm, is predominantly sooty black or very dark brown, often featuring a subtle, variable paler throat that aids in identification. Its sleek, aerodynamic form, coupled with long, pointed wings and a relatively short tail, distin...
Inhabits arid and semi-arid open woodlands, grasslands, and sparsely timbered country, frequently near watercourses or rocky gorges; primarily found at low to moderate elevations.
Primarily avian, consisting of a wide range of birds from finches to parrots, pigeons, and even other raptors, captured almost exclusively in aerial pursuit; occasionally takes small mammals, reptiles, or large insects.
A diurnal hunter, the Black Falcon typically roosts in tall trees or on inaccessible cliff ledges. It is an exceptionally skilled aerial predator, renowned for its pursuit hunting technique where it often engages in prolonged, high-speed chases after birds, its primary prey. During the breeding s...
The Black Falcon is endemic to mainland Australia, exhibiting a widespread yet generally uncommon distribution across the country's arid and semi-arid zones. Its core breeding range encompasses the interior and northern regions of Australia, extending into the drier parts of eastern and western s...
Least Concern
- The Black Falcon is considered one of the darkest raptors in the world, often appearing uniformly black. - Unlike many birds of prey, it does not build its own nest, instead recycling abandoned stick nests of other large birds. - Known for its incredible aerial agility, it can engage in relentl...