The Black Falcon Falco subniger.· A Summary of Information and Comparison with the Brown Falcon Falco berigora

Abstract

The literature concerning field recognition, body weight, diet, feeding/hunting behaviour, courtship and breeding biology of the Black Falcon Falco subniger is reviewed and supplemented with field observations. Some comparisons are made with the Brown Falcon Falco berigora. Generally, the (larger) Black Falcon tends towards faster and more aerial hunting methods and avian prey, and the Brown Falcon tends towards slower and more stationary searching methods and terrestrial prey, with greater emphasis on reptiles. In bodily dimensions, hunting behaviour and diet, the Black Falcon resembles the Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus and especially the Lagger Falcon Falco jugger rather than other Australian falcons. In its adaptation to an arid environment (breeding strategy, diet and hunting tactics), the Black Falcon appears to differ somewhat from the Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucos. Data on the biology of the Black Falcon are limited and require further investigation.