All about Birds
Falcons In Arizona: What You Need To Know
Oct
There are five species of falcons in Arizona, and knowing where to spot, watch, and photograph them gives you an edge when birding.
Arizona falcons are tough, efficient fliers with outstanding aerial agility, which allows them to kill and carry prey six times their body weight.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know…
Since falcons mate for life and breed in the same region, you can find these birds of prey in the same habitat throughout the year.
These raptors are found everywhere in Arizona, with the peregrine falcon being the most popular and American kestrel being the smallest falcon.
5 Species of Falcons in Arizona
As seen, Arizona falcons can be found everywhere from urban areas to steep canyons and cliffs.
Arizona provides a favorable environment for five types of falcons including:
- Peregrine Falcon
- American Kestrel
- Merlin
- Prairie Falcon
- Aplomado Falcon
NOTE: The Gyrfalcon could easily be the sixth species but it’s rarely seen in the state.
These birds of prey have their breeding sites in Arizonian wetlands, riparian areas, and montane coniferous forests.
You can also find them breeding in Mohave and Sonoran Desert scrubs.
Most of these birds are non-migratory and will stay in Arizona throughout the year.
1. American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
American Kestrels are small birds, with a length of about 8-12 inches and a wingspan of around 20 inches.
They have a distinctive appearance, with a blue-gray head, reddish-brown back, and barred underparts.
Male American Kestrels have blue-gray wings, while females have reddish-brown wings.
In Arizona, American Kestrels can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open woodlands, and agricultural areas.
Quick stats:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Falco sparverius |
| Common name | American Kestrel |
| Size | 9-12 inches |
| Wingspan | 20-24 inches |
| Weight | 2-5 ounces |
| Lifespan | Up to 10 years in the wild |
| Habitat | Open country, farmland, grasslands, deserts |
| Range | Throughout North and South America |
| Diet | Insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles |
| Status | Populations stable; least concern species |
| Unique characteristic | Males have striking blue-gray head and wings, while females have rusty-brown wings and tail. |
They are often seen perched on telephone poles or other tall structures, from which they can scan the ground for prey.
These species are a common sight in the state and can often be observed in urban and suburban areas as well as in more natural habitats.
How to Identify American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
Identifying an American Kestrel can be a thrilling experience, especially for bird enthusiasts.
Here are some key features to look for when trying to spot these small but mighty falcons in Arizona…
Size and Shape
American Kestrels are the smallest falcons in North America, with a length of 8.5 to 12 inches and a wingspan of 20 to 24 inches.
They have a slender, streamlined body and long, pointed wings that enable them to fly with precision and agility.
Coloration and Markings
One of the most striking features of the American Kestrel is its bold and vivid coloration.
Males have a blue-gray head and wings, while females have a reddish-brown head and wings with black barring.
Both sexes have a reddish-brown back and tail, with black barring on the tail.
Additionally, American Kestrels have two distinct facial markings: a pair of black “sideburns” or mustache marks, and a white patch above the eye, known as the “eyebrow” or supercilium.
Behavior and Habitat
American Kestrels are often seen perching on wires, fences, or tree branches, scanning the ground for prey.
They are known for their hovering hunting technique, where they remain stationary in the air while searching for food below.
In Arizona, these falcons can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and urban areas.
Look for them near open fields or meadows, where they have ample space to hunt for insects, small mammals, and birds.
2. Prairie Falcons (Falco mexicanus)
As their name suggests, these falcons are mostly found in open fields in Arizona.
These birds are well known for picking up cow waste, dropping them high in the sky, and catching the dung before they hit the ground.
Quick stats:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Falco mexicanus |
| Common name | Prairie Falcon |
| Size | 14-19 inches |
| Wingspan | 35-43 inches |
| Weight | 18-36 ounces |
| Lifespan | Up to 16 years in the wild |
| Habitat | Grasslands, deserts, prairies, tundra |
| Range | Throughout western North America |
| Diet | Small mammals, birds, and reptiles |
| Status | Populations stable; least concern species |
| Unique characteristic | Long, pointed wings and a distinctive mustache-like mark on their face. They are also known for their aggressive territorial behavior during the breeding season. |
Prairie Falcons are commonly found the grasslands, deserts, and agricultural areas in Arizona.
Prairie Falcons are large birds, with a length of about 15-20 inches and a wingspan of around 3 feet.
They have a distinctive appearance, with a dark head and back, pale underparts, and a long, narrow tail.
Closely related to the Peregrine Falcon, the Prairie Falcon is a solitary bird, and doesn’t like large groups.
How to Identify Prairie Falcons (Falco mexicanus)
Prairie Falcons are fascinating birds of prey that are native to the western regions of North America, including Arizona.
To help you spot these skilled hunters in the wild, here are some key features to look for:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size and Shape | Medium-sized falcon (15-19 inches in length, 36-44 inches wingspan), sleek body, pointed wings, and relatively long tail |
| Coloration | Light brown or sandy upperparts with darker brown streaks, pale underparts with brown vertical streaks or spots, thin dark bands on the tail, and a dark axillary mark on the underside of the wing |
| Head Markings | Faint, pale “eyebrow” and a thin, dark mustache stripe (malar stripe) below the eye |
| Behavior | Fast and agile hunters, often flying low over the ground to surprise and catch prey |
| Habitat | Open habitats such as grasslands, deserts, and shrublands in Arizona, often near cliffs or other natural features for nesting |
Size and Shape
Prairie Falcons are medium-sized falcons, with a length of 15 to 19 inches and a wingspan of 36 to 44 inches.
Their size is similar to the Peregrine Falcon but smaller than the larger Red-tailed Hawk.
Prairie Falcons have a sleek body, pointed wings, and a relatively long tail, which aid them in their agile flight.
Coloration and Markings
Prairie Falcons have a predominantly light brown or sandy color on their upperparts, with darker brown streaks.
The underparts are pale, often with brown vertical streaks or spots.
Their tails have thin, dark bands, with a thicker subterminal band near the tip. A distinguishing feature of Prairie Falcons is the dark “armpit” or axillary mark found on the underside of the wing.
This can be seen when the bird is in flight and helps differentiate it from similar species.
The head of a Prairie Falcon is marked with a faint, pale “eyebrow” and a thin, dark mustache stripe or malar stripe below the eye. These markings are less pronounced than those found on the American Kestrel.
Behavior and Habitat
Prairie Falcons are known for their fast and agile hunting techniques.
They often hunt by flying low over the ground, using their speed to surprise and catch their prey. Their diet consists of small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
In Arizona, Prairie Falcons can be found in open habitats such as grasslands, deserts, and shrublands. They prefer areas with cliffs or other natural features that provide suitable nesting sites.
By familiarizing yourself with the size, coloration, and behavior of the Prairie Falcon, you will be better equipped to identify these incredible birds of prey in Arizona.
3. Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus)
Peregrine Falcon is the largest species of falcon in Arizona.
You can often spot them nesting on tall buildings in Phoenix, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch them in action diving at about 200 mph.
It is known for its impressive speed and agility and is often referred to as the “king of birds.”
Quick stats:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Falco peregrinus |
| Common name | Peregrine Falcon |
| Size | 14-19 inches |
| Wingspan | 39-47 inches |
| Weight | 1-3 pounds |
| Lifespan | Up to 15-20 years in the wild |
| Habitat | Cliffs, tall buildings, and other high structures |
| Range | Found on every continent except Antarctica |
| Diet | Birds, such as pigeons and doves, and bats |
| Status | Populations increasing; removed from endangered list in 1999 |
| Unique characteristic | Known for their incredibly fast dive, reaching speeds of over 200 mph. Peregrines have a black hood on their head and yellow eyes. |
In Arizona, Peregrine Falcons can be found in a variety of habitats, including mountains, cliffs, and urban areas.
These falcons are large birds, with a length of about 15-20 inches and a wingspan of around 3 feet.
Male Peregrine Falcons are stockier than females, who take bigger but slenderer build.
How to Identify Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus)
Peregrine Falcons are renowned for their incredible speed and hunting prowess.
To help you spot these remarkable birds in Arizona, here are some key features to look for:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Large falcon, 35-50 cm long, wingspan of 80-120 cm |
| Plumage | Dark blue-grey back and wings, with a barred white underbelly and a black head and “moustache” marking. Juvenile birds have brownish-grey back and wings and streaked underparts. |
| Facial features | Black head and “moustache” marking |
| Habitat | Found in a wide range of habitats, including coastlines, cliffs, cities, and open plains |
| Range | Found on every continent except Antarctica |
| Flight pattern | Fastest birds in the world, capable of diving at speeds over 320 km/h (200 mph). Agile fliers with quick wingbeats and the ability to hover. |
| Behavior | Known for their spectacular hunting dives, or “stoops”, in which they fold their wings and plummet towards their prey. |
| Call | High-pitched, cackling call that is often described as “kak-kak-kak” or “kek-kek-kek”. |
Size and Shape
Peregrine Falcons are medium-sized birds of prey, with a length of 14 to 19 inches and a wingspan of 39 to 43 inches.
They have a muscular build, pointed wings, and a relatively short tail, which enables them to achieve remarkable speeds in flight.
Coloration and Markings
Peregrine Falcons have a distinct coloration that sets them apart from other falcons. Their back and wings are dark blue-gray, while their underparts are pale with dark horizontal bars.
The tail is also barred with a wide, dark terminal band.
One of the most notable features of the Peregrine Falcon is its head markings. They have a dark “helmet” or “hood” that covers the top of the head, extending down the sides to form a thick mustache stripe below the eye.
This creates a strong contrast with the pale cheeks and throat.
Behavior and Habitat
Peregrine Falcons are best known for their incredible hunting technique, called the “stoop.”
They dive from great heights at speeds of over 200 mph to strike their prey in mid-air.
Their diet consists mainly of medium-sized birds, such as pigeons and doves.
In Arizona, Peregrine Falcons can be found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, where they have adapted to nesting on tall buildings and bridges.
They also inhabit mountainous regions, canyons, and cliffs near bodies of water.
4. Merlin (Falco columbarius)
Larger than the American Kestrel but smaller than the Peregrine, the Merlin falcon is fierce and uses the element of surprise to catch prey.
It is a bird of open habitats, such as grasslands and field.
In Arizona, Merlins can be found throughout the state, although they are more common in the northern and central parts of the state.
Quick stats:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Falco columbarius |
| Common name | Merlin Falcon |
| Size | 9-11 inches |
| Wingspan | 20-26 inches |
| Weight | 5-8 ounces |
| Lifespan | Up to 12 years in the wild |
| Habitat | Open country, forests, and wetlands |
| Range | Found throughout North America and Eurasia |
| Diet | Small birds, insects, and occasionally bats |
| Status | Populations stable; least concern species |
| Unique characteristic | Known for their fast, acrobatic flight and ability to catch birds in mid-air. They have a distinctive facial pattern with a “mustache” mark under their eyes. |
Merlins are small birds, with a length of about 9-12 inches and a wingspan of around 20 inches.
They have a dark head and back, pale underparts, and a long, narrow tail.
Male Merlins are smaller than females.
How to Identify Merlin (Falco columbarius)
The Merlin is a small but powerful falcon, known for its swift and agile flight.
To help you spot these fascinating birds in Arizona and elsewhere, here are some key features to look for:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Small to medium-sized falcon, 25-30 cm long, wingspan of 50-65 cm |
| Plumage | Adult males have blue-grey back and wings, reddish-brown underparts with black streaks, and a dark grey head with a white “moustache” marking. Females and juveniles have brownish-grey back and wings, buffy underparts with brown streaks, and a less distinct facial pattern. |
| Facial features | Adult males have a dark grey head with a white “moustache” marking, females and juveniles have less distinct facial pattern |
| Habitat | Found in a variety of open habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, tundra, and forests |
| Range | Found throughout North America, Eurasia, and northern Africa |
| Flight pattern | Fast, agile fliers with quick wingbeats and the ability to hover |
| Behavior | Known for their aggressive hunting style and ability to take down prey larger than themselves. |
| Call | High-pitched, shrill call often described as a “killy-killy-killy” or “chirrup” sound. |
Size and Shape
Merlins are small falcons, with a length of 9 to 12 inches and a wingspan of 20 to 27 inches.
They have a compact build, short wings, and a square-shaped tail, which contribute to their exceptional maneuverability in the air.
Coloration and Markings
The coloration of Merlins varies depending on the individual and subspecies.
Generally, they have dark, slate-gray or brown upperparts, and pale underparts with dark streaks.
Males may have a blue-gray coloration on the back and wings, while females are more likely to be brown.
The tail is banded with dark and light bands, and the tip is typically darker.
Merlins have a faint, pale “eyebrow” above the eye, and a weak mustache stripe or malar stripe below the eye, which is less pronounced than in other falcons.
Behavior and Habitat
Merlins are known for their fast, agile hunting techniques. They often chase and capture their prey in mid-air, relying on their speed and maneuverability.
Their diet consists mainly of small birds, as well as insects and occasionally small mammals.
In Arizona, Merlins can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, deserts, and open woodlands.
They are most commonly seen during migration and winter months, as they breed further north.
5. Aplomado Falcon (Falco femoralis)
As colorful as the American Kestrel, the Aplomado falcon is a permanent resident of Arizona.
It was one of the most common falcons in the state, but degradation of their habitat has seen their numbers plummet drastically over the years.
It is a medium-sized falcon with a length of about 14-17 inches and a wingspan of around 3 feet.
Quick stats:
| Fact | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Falco femoralis |
| Common name | Aplomado Falcon |
| Size | 14-16 inches |
| Wingspan | 35-44 inches |
| Weight | 7-12 ounces |
| Lifespan | Up to 7-8 years in the wild |
| Habitat | Grasslands, savannas, and scrublands |
| Range | Found in Southwestern U.S., Mexico, and Central and South America |
| Diet | Birds, small mammals, reptiles, and insects |
| Status | Endangered in the U.S. and Mexico, populations decreasing |
| Unique characteristic | Known for their striking appearance with black and white striped face, yellow legs, and rusty brown back. They are also one of the only falcons to regularly hunt on foot. |
Aplomado Falcons have black-and-white facial stripes, and don’t build their nests, instead they use old nests built by other birds.
During courtship rituals, the Aplamado couple pass food to each other in midair.
These falcons are very slender, have long wings and long tails.
How to Identify Aplomado Falcon (Falco femoralis)
The Aplomado Falcon is a striking and elegant bird of prey native to parts of the Americas.
Although rare in Arizona, it is still possible to spot them in certain areas.
Here are some key features to look for when trying to identify Aplomado Falcons:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium-sized falcon, 36-43 cm long, wingspan of 80-95 cm |
| Plumage | Black and white head and neck, blue-grey back and wings, reddish-brown underparts, black band on wings |
| Facial features | Black “moustache” marking, white throat and cheeks, large dark eyes, yellow or orange cere |
| Habitat | Open grasslands, savannas, shrublands, and deserts |
| Range | South and Central America |
Size and Shape
Aplomado Falcons are medium-sized falcons, with a length of 12 to 17 inches and a wingspan of 31 to 36 inches.
They have a slender body, long legs, and long, pointed wings, which contribute to their graceful flight.
Coloration and Markings
The Aplomado Falcon has a unique and eye-catching coloration.
The upperparts are dark blue-gray to black, while the underparts are white or buff, with a distinctive dark horizontal band across the chest.
The legs are heavily streaked with dark vertical markings.
One of the most notable features of the Aplomado Falcon is its facial markings.
They have a bold, white stripe above the eye, which contrasts sharply with the black cap and cheek patches. There is also a thin, black mustache stripe or malar stripe below the eye.
Behavior and Habitat
Aplomado Falcons are agile hunters, known for their speed and maneuverability.
They often hunt in pairs or family groups, working together to pursue and capture their prey. Their diet consists mainly of small birds, insects, and occasionally small mammals.
In Arizona, Aplomado Falcons are rare visitors, but they can sometimes be found in open habitats such as grasslands and savannas. They are more commonly found in parts of Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Where To Bird Watch For Falcons In Southern Arizona
Falcons like their close rivals the hawks are territorial, loyal and majestic hunters that live in a variety of habitats in Arizona, including grasslands, forests, and urban areas.
To increase your chances of seeing a falcon, you can try visiting areas with a good supply of prey, such as open fields or areas with a lot of small birds.
You can also try visiting areas with cliffs or ledges, as falcons often hunt from these perches. Some popular areas to look for falcons in Arizona include the Grand Canyon, Saguaro National Park, and the Chiricahua Mountains.
If you are interested in seeing falcons in their natural habitat, it is important to remember to respect their space and not disturb them.
Keep a safe distance from the birds and do not try to approach or handle them.
With plenty of riparian, forested, and wooded lands, the Southern region of Arizona is home to many species of birds including hummingbirds, doves, owls, and quails.
Presence of prey attract falcons to this region, making it one of the best places to spot falcons in Arizona.
When looking out for falcons in this part of the state, visit Cave Creek Canyon, Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, or Sierra Vista.
These habitats have form unique ecological zones for birds as hundreds of species from Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts meet and interact with those from Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Madre.
Northern Arizona
In the north, you’ll find the Watson Woods Riparian Preserve and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area as the prime locations for spotting falcons in Arizona.
Various species of raptors congregate in this region especially in fall and spring because many birds they prey upon nest and breed here.
The Glen Canyon is situated at the center of pristine waters and forests, making it an ideal hideout for falcons.
When you visit this area, better arm yourself with your binoculars, as falcons make a spectacle as they glide, dip, and soar on the air currents rising from the canyon.
Central Arizona
If you can’t drive to the remote northern areas of Arizona, you can still get to watch falcons at the heart of Phoenix metro area.
The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is like a rendezvous point for various migratory birds including pelicans, spoonbill, and ducks.
Falcons congregate here as there’s plenty of food.
Few miles from Phoenix, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum is another haven for various types of birds ranging from hummingbirds to sparrows.
While the large gathering of birds in this area attracts falcons, these birds retreat to riparian habitats, woodlands, and forests as they are perfect ecosystems where they feed and breed in Arizona.
FAQs
Are falcons common in Arizona?
Arizona provides an ideal habitat for many species of falcons, making them relatively common in the state. Some of the falcon species that can be found in Arizona include the Peregrine Falcon, Prairie Falcon, and American Kestrel.
What is the small falcon in Arizona?
The American Kestrel is the smallest falcon in Arizona and is found in various habitats such as grasslands, deserts, and farmlands. Their small size, striking plumage, and hovering behavior make them easy to identify.
What is the largest bird of prey in Arizona?
The California Condor is the largest bird of prey in Arizona, and also in North America. These magnificent birds were once close to extinction but are now making a comeback through conservation efforts. Their impressive wingspan, which can reach up to 9.5 feet, makes them easy to spot.
What is the most aggressive falcon?
The Peregrine Falcon is known for its aggressive hunting behavior and can reach speeds of up to 240 miles per hour when diving to catch prey. They are also known for their territorial behavior, which can lead to fierce battles with other birds of prey.
What is the most famous falcon?
The Peregrine Falcon is one of the most famous falcons due to its incredible speed and agility, and its successful recovery from near extinction through conservation efforts. They are also popular among falconers due to their hunting abilities and trainability.
Conclusion
Falcons are incredible raptors known for their agility, exceptional hunting abilities, and fierceness.
Falcons in Arizona rarely migrate as they nest and breed in the state.
The best time to watch these birds is during their hunting hours, which can be mid-mornings or late afternoon.
