Gray Falcon
Falco hypoleucos
NativeStatus
Very RareRarity
Species Description
The Grey Falcon is a rare bird of prey found only in Australia, living mostly in the dry, remote inland regions. It is one of the least commonly seen raptors in the country, and sightings are special due to its preference for isolated, harsh environments.
Fun Facts
The Grey Falcon is considered Australia’s rarest falcon, with possibly fewer than 1, individuals remaining.
1. Pale grey plumage with black wing-tips above and below.
2. Bright yellow-orange cere, eye-rings, and feet in adults; juveniles have blue-grey facial skin and duller yellow legs.
3. Feathered legs and a stocky build, unlike the longer, bare legs of the Brown Falcon.
Grey Falcons are found in Australia’s arid and semi-arid interior, especially in regions with low annual rainfall. They inhabit open woodlands, shrublands, and grasslands, often near watercourses lined with eucalypts or acacias. They are most often seen perched on dead trees, tall structures, or occasionally on artificial sites like telecommunications towers. The best chance to see one is near waterholes or bores in inland Queensland, western New South Wales, the Northern Territory, and parts of Western Australia. They are most active at dawn and dusk.
Physical Attributes
Height
38 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds77%
Top Locations
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Top birding locations will be available in a future update.