Australasian Falcon look-alikes

Key differences

The Australasian Falcon is much smaller, more compact, and has pointed wings and rapid flight, contrasting with the Harrier's larger size, longer wings held in a dihedral, and buoyant, gliding flight. Harriers have a slower, more deliberate hunting style, often quartering over open ground. Falcon has a distinct malar stripe, which the Harrier lacks. Harriers are typically brown with a pale rump, while falcons have rufous underparts.

Key differences

The Brown Falcon is found in Australia and Tasmania, not New Zealand. It is generally larger and more slender than the Australasian Falcon, with broader, more rounded wings. Its plumage is typically brown with varying degrees of streaking, but it lacks the strong rufous underparts and distinct malar stripe of the Australasian Falcon. Its flight is often slower and more buoyant, with more hovering.