The Bat Falcon is a small, swift, and highly agile falcon of the Neotropics, known for its crepuscular hunting habits and specialization in catching bats and small birds in flight.
Where to spot
Tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and open areas near water from Mexico through Central and South America. Often found near human settlements with bridges or buildings where bats roost.
How to spot
Look for its small size, dark slate-grey upperparts, white throat, black breast band, and rufous belly and thighs. Its flight is incredibly fast and acrobatic. Often perches conspicuously on dead snags or tall buildings.
When to spot
Highly active at dawn and dusk, when bats and aerial insects are most available. Observable year-round.
Where to spot
Tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and open areas near water from Mexico through Central and South America. Often found near human settlements with bridges or buildings where bats roost.
How to spot
Look for its small size, dark slate-grey upperparts, white throat, black breast band, and rufous belly and thighs. Its flight is incredibly fast and acrobatic. Often perches conspicuously on dead snags or tall buildings.
When to spot
Highly active at dawn and dusk, when bats and aerial insects are most available. Observable year-round.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
True to its name, this falcon is an expert at hunting bats, often seen near caves or bridges at dusk, swooping and snatching bats as they emerge.
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