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Natural habitat of Brown Falcon
Brown Falcon, a Native Common bird in Australia

Brown Falcon

Falco berigora

NativeStatus
CommonRarity
Image of Brown Falcon
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Species Description

The Brown Falcon is a widespread and adaptable raptor found across Australia and into New Guinea. Known for its variable plumage and characteristic facial markings, this falcon is often seen perched on fence posts, power poles, or dead trees in open country, scanning for prey.

Fun Facts

Brown Falcons use their notched beak to quickly kill prey by severing the neck, rather than relying on strong talons like eagles and hawks.

1. Plumage varies geographically: southeastern birds are generally brown, inland birds more rufous, and northern birds darker.

2. Most have a pale face with two dark streaks below the eyes.

3. Long, unfeathered legs and a slow, heavy flight pattern, often described as "rowing," set them apart from other Australian falcons

Brown Falcons inhabit open landscapes such as grasslands, farmland, pastures, heathlands, saltbush plains, woodland edges, and urban fringes. They are frequently seen perched in elevated positions, watching for prey. Active throughout the day, they are especially noticeable at dawn and dusk. Their loud, cackling calls are often heard when defending territory or communicating with mates

The Brown Falcon, known as "Berigora" in some Aboriginal people’s languages, features in several stories, including the Warlpiri Water Dreaming (Ngapa Jukurrpa), where the falcon plays a role in carrying storms across the landscape. In Arnhem Land, the Brown Falcon (Karrkanj) is recognised for its association with fire and is significant to the Rembarrnga and Dalabon peoples.

Physical Attributes

Height

46 cm

Size Relative to Other Birds84%

Top Locations

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Top birding locations will be available in a future update.