Where does the Australasian Falcon live?
Falco novaeseelandiae
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Open the appThe Australasian Falcon lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Forests, shrublands, grasslands, subalpine areas, open country, and occasionally agricultural land.
Geographic range
Endemic to New Zealand, found on both the North and South Islands, as well as some offshore islands. More common in the South Island, particularly in mountainous and forested regions.
Preferred environments
Prefers rugged, hilly, or mountainous terrain with a mix of open areas for hunting and forest edges or cliffs for nesting. Also found in exotic pine plantations.
Elevation range
Sea level up to 2000 meters, often preferring higher altitudes in the South Island.
Where to look
South Island High Country
Particularly in the Southern Alps and surrounding foothills, where they are more common.
Forest Edges and Cleared Areas
Often seen hunting along the interface between native forest and open land, or in exotic pine plantations.
Coastal Cliffs and Offshore Islands
Some populations exist in these areas, especially where prey is abundant and nesting sites are secure.
Field tips
- Scan the Skies. Look for them soaring high on thermals or perched on prominent trees, power poles, or cliff edges, surveying their territory.
- Listen for Calls. Their distinctive 'kek-kek-kek' call can often alert you to their presence, especially near nesting sites.
- Observe Hunting Behavior. Watch for their characteristic rapid pursuit of prey or high-speed stoops. They are incredibly fast.
- Visit Known Territories. Inquire with local birdwatching groups or conservation organizations for known territories or recent sightings.
Migration
Resident throughout its range, though some altitudinal movements may occur in winter, with birds moving to lower elevations.
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