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Prairie Falcon

Falco mexicanus

The Prairie Falcon is a rare visitor to North Texas and has been seen in winter and spring. Towards Wichita Falls they become a little more common. It can be found in open areas.

Species information:

Length: 15 – 19”
Wingspan: 40”
Weight: Male: 1.2 lb; Female: 1.5 – 2.0 lb

Plumage: Pale brown on head, back, tail and wings. White chest with brown spots. When flying, it has distinct black coverts and axillaries (or armpit feathers) where the wings meet the body.

Habitat: Open areas.

Flight: Strong, consistent wing beats. This bird flies fast and straight, looks very powerful. Wings are not as pointed as the Peregrine Falcon.

Vocalization: A loud, fast kree-kree-kree-kree. Similar to Peregrine Falcon.

Food: Birds and small mammals.

Nesting: Not normally found nesting in North Texas. Nests on cliff faces and rock outcrops. They usually lay 4 – 5 eggs that are incubated for about 29 days. Young fledge in about 6 weeks.