Polihierax semitorquatus
Least Concern
The Pygmy falcon, Africa's smallest raptor, is a pint-sized predator with a striking white and rufous plumage, native to the arid regions of Eastern and Southern Africa. Despite its diminutive size, this falcon is a formidable hunter, known for its agility and sharp talons, often seen perching conspicuously on acacia branches surveying the savanna for its next meal.
Grey
Grey
Grey
White
White, Rufous
White, Rufous
Grey
Grey
Grey
Hooked
Grey, Black
Grey, Black
Grey, Black
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White face, grey back and white flanks
Rufous on the back
Similar to adults but duller and rufous wash on breast
Square tail with black and white barring
Square tail with black and white barring
Square tail with black and white barring
19cm to 21cm
Length
32cm to 40cm
Wingspan
60g to 80g
Weight
Click on an image below to see the full-size version
Female Pygmy Falcon
Pygmy Falcon Male (left) and Female (right)
Female Pygmy Falcon with prey
Female Pygmy Falcon looking around
Chirp, whistle
A series of chirps and high-pitched whistles
Sharp, repeated chirps
Hunting and perching in the early morning and late afternoon
Pairs or solitary, sometimes in small family groups
Defends territory around nesting sites
Non-migratory
Occasionally interacts with other species, especially around water holes
Insects, Small Mammals, Reptiles
Catches prey in flight or from a perch
Dawn and dusk
Stoop from a perch or hover
Opportunistic, varies with prey availability
None known
Tree hollows or abandoned nests of other birds, especially weaver birds
Uses existing structures, occasionally adds feathers
Varies by region, often after rains
Mainly one, sometimes two
White with red-brown spots
Approximately 3.2cm x 2.5cm
2-4 eggs per clutch
About 30 days
Around 6-7 weeks
Both parents feed and protect the chicks
Eastern and Southern Africa, from Ethiopia to Tanzania and west to Angola
Dry savanna, thorn scrub, and semi-desert
Up to 2500 meters
Non-migratory
Savanna, Scrubland
Subtropical, Tropical
Please note, this range and distribution map is a high-level overview, and doesn't break down into specific regions and areas of the countries.
Resident or Present
Non-breeding
5
7
6 year(s)
1 year(s)
1-2 year(s)
Monogamous pairs, territorial during breeding season
Little known about age-related changes
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
Habitat loss and degradation
Not specifically targeted due to Least Concern status
Current population is stable
Other names:
African Pygmy Falcon
Family:
FalconidaePopulation size:
Unknown
Population trend:
Stable
Conservation status:
Least Concern
IUCN Red List
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