Red-footed Falcon

Falco vespertinus

The Red-footed Falcon is a rather uncommon raptor of the Old World, wintering in southern Africa, and spending the northern hemisphere summer in eastern Europe through central Asia.  They are very long-distance migrants, and vagrants are often found in western Europe, but in August 2004, one Red-footed Falcon was found in Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts, marking the first time the species had been spotted in the Western Hemisphere. 

Habitat: On its wintering grounds in Africa, it prefers open grassy habitats with scattered trees and shrubs. During the northern hemisphere's summer, they are often found in semi-open habitats in and around water sources, including open woodlands, savannahs, and agricultural land with vegetation along fencerows.

Diet: Mostly feeds on large insects, but they will also take small birds, small rodents, and other small vertebrates such as lizards or snakes

Behavior: Does most of its foraging while in flight, capturing insects or small birds in mid-air.  Red-footed Falcons are capable of hovering while foraging.

Nesting: Often uses stick nests built by other birds, such as Rooks, Magpies, or Crows.  eThey typically breed in small colonies, but will also sometimes be found nesting alone.

Migration: Very long-distance migrant.  Most birds winter in southern Africa, their breeding grounds, while summering birds can be found from eastern Europe through central Asia.

Similar Species: Amur Falcon, another Eurasian species.

Conservation Status: The IUCN currently lists the Red-footed Falcon as "Near Threatened".  Populations have declined sharply across much of their range in Europe, while Asian populations appear to be more stable.

Further Information: 1) The Peregrine Fund - Red-footed Falcon

2) N.Y. Times - The Red-footed Falcon Makes its Western Hemisphere Debut

3) BirdLife International - Red-footed Falcon

Photo Information: March 25th, 2011 - Kolosi, Cypress - Mick Sway - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attributions No-Derivs 2.0 Generic License.