Lanner Falcon
Least ConcernFalco biarmicus
Visual Identification
Lanner Falcon
Appearance
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.
Size
Length
43cm to 50cm
Wingspan
95cm to 105cm
Weight
500g to 900g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Lanner Falcons inhabit a wide range of open and semi-open environments, including savannas, steppes, and mountainous regions. They are found across Africa, parts of southern Europe, and the Middle East, adapting to diverse landscapes from sea level to high altitudes.
In Europe, they are most commonly seen in Italy and Greece. There are occasional sightings in the UK, typically involving escaped falconry birds rather than wild populations.
Elevation Range
Up to 2,500 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subtropical, Tropical
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
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.
Behaviour
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.
Vocalisation
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.
Nesting & Breeding
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.
Lifespan
years
The Lanner Falcon typically lives for 10 to 15 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
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.
Birdwatching Tips
- 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.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Lanner
Family:
FalconidaePredators
Adult Lanner Falcons have few natural predators due to their size and flying ability. However, eggs and chicks may fall prey to large birds of prey, corvids, and climbing mammals.
Did You Know?
- Lanner Falcons can reach speeds of up to 180 km/h (112 mph) when diving for prey.
- They have been used in falconry for centuries, prized for their versatility in hunting various game birds.
- Unlike many raptors, Lanner Falcons sometimes hunt cooperatively in pairs, increasing their success rate.
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References
- 1
website: BirdLife International. 2021. Falco biarmicus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T22696487A200013311.
View source - 2 3
report, 2001: Ferguson-Lees and Christie