Falco cherrug
The Saker Falcon, Falco cherrug, is a majestic large falcon revered for its speed and hunting prowess across the vast steppes of Eurasia. This powerful raptor measures 47-55 cm in length with an impressive wingspan of 105-129 cm, and females, typically weighing 970-1300 g, are noticeably larger than males who range from 730-990 g. Its plumage is characterized by a dark brown back, often appearing streaked or barred, contrasting with pale underparts that range from whitish to rufous, usually m...
Saker Falcons primarily inhabit open, arid and semi-arid landscapes, including steppes, grasslands, deserts, and rocky mountainous areas, often near cliffs or scattered trees. They can be found from sea level up to elevations exceeding 3,000 meters in some parts of their range.
Their diet consists predominantly of small to medium-sized mammals, especially ground squirrels and hamsters, complemented by a significant proportion of medium-sized birds like doves, partridges, and corvids. They hunt primarily through active aerial pursuit or surprise attacks from a high perch...
Saker Falcons are diurnal hunters, typically active from dawn to dusk, often roosting on prominent perches like cliffs, power poles, or solitary trees. Their foraging strategy involves swift, low-level aerial pursuit of prey or dramatic stoops from a high perch, but they are also adept at ground ...
The Saker Falcon has a vast, though increasingly fragmented, breeding range stretching from Eastern Europe across the Central Asian steppes to parts of China and Mongolia. Key breeding strongholds include Hungary, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. During winter, northern populations migrate south...
Endangered
- Saker Falcons are among the fastest birds in level flight, often clocked at speeds exceeding 150 km/h (93 mph). - They are one of the most highly prized raptors in the ancient sport of falconry, particularly in the Middle East and Central Asia. - Unlike many raptors, Sakers do not build their o...