The Prairie Falcon is a large, fast-flying raptor native to western North America, adapted to hunting in arid grasslands, deserts, and open country.
Where to spot
Arid grasslands, sagebrush plains, deserts, and agricultural areas in western North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
How to spot
Look for its pale brown upperparts, heavily streaked underparts, and prominent dark 'armpits' (axillaries) visible in flight. Its flight is powerful and direct, often low to the ground.
When to spot
Active during the day. Observable year-round, though some move to lower elevations in winter.
Where to spot
Arid grasslands, sagebrush plains, deserts, and agricultural areas in western North America, from southern Canada to northern Mexico.
How to spot
Look for its pale brown upperparts, heavily streaked underparts, and prominent dark 'armpits' (axillaries) visible in flight. Its flight is powerful and direct, often low to the ground.
When to spot
Active during the day. Observable year-round, though some move to lower elevations in winter.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This falcon is a master of low-level pursuit, often flying very fast just above the ground to ambush ground squirrels and other small mammals or birds.
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