For every 100 Brown Falcons …

… that I see on the plains, I can reckon on a single Black Falcon.

Each encounter is a thrilling event. This one was spotted yesterday afternoon at the Moolort grain silos.

When perched it can be easy to discount this species as just another Brown Falcon, although when you become familiar with Black Falcons they are instantly recognisable.

A fast and powerful flier, the tail is noticeably longer than the wings and they lack the distinct Brown Falcon mask. In flight their rapid wing-beats and long, broad wings set them apart from their sluggish cousin. While they breed locally most years I seem to observe them more frequently in winter.

Black Falcon, Moolort Plains, 16th May 2020

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