Lanner Falcon

The Lanner Falcon is a medium-sized raptor with a sleek, streamlined body. It features a brown-grey back, pale underparts with dark spotting, and a distinctive 'moustache' marking on its face. The wings are long and pointed, ideal for high-speed flight.

Females are noticeably larger and heavier than males, with darker overall plumage. Juveniles have a more streaked appearance, with brownish upperparts and heavily marked underparts. The distinctive facial pattern develops as they mature.

Lanner Falcons have a range of vocalisations, with the most common being a sharp, repetitive 'kak-kak-kak' or 'kek-kek-kek'.

During courtship and territorial displays, they may produce a softer, more musical 'wichew' call. Their vocalisations are generally less frequent and less varied than other falcon species.

• Look for Lanner Falcons soaring over open landscapes or perched on high vantage points.
• Listen for their sharp, repeated 'kak-kak-kak' calls, especially during breeding season.
• Observe their distinctive hunting behaviour, which often involves fast, low flights over open ground.
• In areas where they overlap with Peregrine Falcons, note the Lanner's slightly larger size and more rufous crown.

Lanner Falcons primarily hunt birds, ranging from small passerines to medium-sized species like pigeons and waterfowl. They also prey on bats, rodents, and large insects.

These falcons often hunt in pairs, with one bird flushing prey while the other makes the capture, demonstrating their adaptability and cooperative hunting skills.

Breeding pairs of Lanner Falcons form strong, often lifelong bonds. The breeding season varies by region but typically occurs between February and June. These falcons do not build their own nests, instead utilising cliff ledges, old nests of other large birds, or occasionally man-made structures.

Females usually lay 3-4 eggs, which are creamy-white with reddish-brown spots. The eggs are incubated primarily by the female for about 32-35 days while the male provides food.

Chicks fledge after 40-45 days but remain dependent on their parents for several weeks, gradually developing their hunting skills before becoming fully independent.

Lanner Falcons are known for their agile and swift flight, often performing spectacular aerial displays during courtship. They hunt with impressive speed and agility, pursuing prey in level flight or stooping from great heights.

These falcons are generally solitary but may form loose pairs or small family groups outside the breeding season.

While listed as Least Concern globally, Lanner Falcon populations face localised threats. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and illegal falconry trade impact some populations.

Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and reducing human-wildlife conflicts, particularly in areas where the species is declining.