How to identify the Australasian Falcon

To correctly identify the Australasian Falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

36-50 cm

Wingspan

66-95 cm

Weight

Male: 250-450 g, Female: 450-900 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have dark slate-grey to brownish-black upperparts, often with faint barring. The underparts are rufous to chestnut, heavily streaked with dark brown or black, particularly on the breast and flanks. The throat is whitish, and there is a distinct dark malar stripe (moustache) below the eye. The tail is dark with narrow pale bands, and the undertail coverts are rufous. The cere and orbital ring are yellow.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Strong, hooked beak, dark grey to black with a yellow cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Yellow legs and feet with black talons.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Powerful build, pointed wings, rapid flight, and a distinctive dark malar stripe. The rufous underparts with heavy streaking are characteristic. Females are noticeably larger than males.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are generally darker and browner than adults, with less distinct streaking on the underparts and a more uniform dark brown back. The cere and orbital ring are bluish-grey, gradually turning yellow with age. The streaking on the underparts is often broader and less defined than in adults.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly worn or faded towards the end of the breeding season before molting.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Pronounced sexual dimorphism, with females being considerably larger and heavier than males (up to twice the weight). Plumage coloration is similar between sexes, though females may appear slightly darker overall.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized, compact falcon with pointed wings and a relatively short tail. Females are noticeably larger than males.
• Plumage (Adult). Dark slate-grey to brownish-black upperparts. Rufous to chestnut underparts with heavy dark streaking. Whitish throat and prominent dark malar stripe (moustache).
• Flight. Powerful, fast, and agile flight with rapid wing beats. Capable of spectacular high-speed dives.
• Vocalizations. Distinctive rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kare-kare-kare' calls, especially when agitated or territorial.
• Habitat. Look in rugged, hilly, or mountainous terrain, forest edges, and open country in New Zealand.

Explore the Australasian Falcon