Falco novaeseelandiae
The New Zealand Falcon, or Kārearea in Māori, is New Zealand's only endemic diurnal raptor, a powerful and agile hunter belonging to the Falconidae family. This medium-sized falcon measures 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length with a wingspan of 70-100 cm (28-39 inches), and typically weighs between 250-600g (0.55-1.3 lbs), with females significantly larger than males. Adults are characterized by dark slate-grey to brownish-black upperparts, a paler, streaked rufous breast, and barred underparts...
Found across a wide range of New Zealand's landscapes, from dense native forests and exotic forestry plantations to open tussock grasslands, high country, and scrubland, often near cliffs or steep terrain from sea level up to alpine zones.
Primarily avian, preying on small to medium-sized birds up to twice their own weight, supplemented by large insects, small mammals, and reptiles, typically caught in swift aerial pursuits or ground ambushes.
New Zealand Falcons are strictly diurnal hunters, typically spending nights roosting on high, sheltered perches such as prominent tree branches or cliff ledges. Their foraging strategy is characterized by explosive speed and agility; they hunt primarily by aerial pursuit, stooping from a height t...
The New Zealand Falcon is endemic to New Zealand, found across both the North and South Islands, as well as on some smaller offshore islands. Its distribution spans a wide altitudinal range, from coastal cliffs and low-lying plains to alpine scrub and high-country grasslands, reaching elevations ...
Near Threatened
- The New Zealand Falcon is the fastest bird in New Zealand, capable of dives exceeding 200 km/h (124 mph). - It is New Zealand's only endemic diurnal raptor. - Kārearea are known for their incredibly aggressive territorial defense, often dive-bombing perceived threats, including humans, much lar...