The Amur Falcon is a small bird of prey that breeds in eastern Asia and migrates to southern Africa during the winter. The male has a blue-grey head and wings, a chestnut back and tail, and a white underbelly. The female is brown with streaks on the underbelly. They are known for their spectacular migration, with some individuals traveling up to 22,000 km in a year. They feed on insects, small birds, and bats, and are often seen hunting in flocks. The Amur Falcon is considered a near-threatened species due to habitat loss and hunting in some parts of its range.
Characteristics and Facts About Amur Falcon
1. Small size: Amur Falcons are small birds, measuring around 20-25 cm in length and weighing only 60-100 grams.
2. Distinctive plumage: Male Amur Falcons have a striking blue-grey head and back, with a chestnut-colored breast and belly. Females have a brownish-grey head and back, with a buff-colored breast and belly.
3. Migratory: Amur Falcons are migratory birds, breeding in eastern Asia and wintering in southern Africa.
4. Agile flyers: Amur Falcons are known for their swift and agile flight, which allows them to catch insects and small birds in mid-air.
5. Social birds: Amur Falcons are social birds and often form large flocks during migration and wintering.
6. Insectivorous: Amur Falcons primarily feed on insects, such as dragonflies, grasshoppers, and termites.
7. Threatened species: Amur Falcons are considered a threatened species due to habitat loss and hunting in their breeding grounds in Asia.