The Black-thighed Falconet is the smallest raptor in Southeast Asia, a tiny but fierce predator found in open forests and cultivated areas. It preys primarily on insects and small birds.
Where to spot
Open woodlands, forest clearings, and cultivated areas with scattered trees throughout Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Java.
How to spot
Look for its extremely small size (sparrow-sized), black upperparts, white underparts with black thighs, and a white supercilium. Often perches conspicuously on dead branches or power lines.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, often most visible in the morning and late afternoon. Observable year-round.
Where to spot
Open woodlands, forest clearings, and cultivated areas with scattered trees throughout Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Java.
How to spot
Look for its extremely small size (sparrow-sized), black upperparts, white underparts with black thighs, and a white supercilium. Often perches conspicuously on dead branches or power lines.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, often most visible in the morning and late afternoon. Observable year-round.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This falconet is incredibly fast and agile in flight, capable of catching dragonflies and other large insects mid-air with remarkable precision.
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