Birds
Aplomado Falcon
Falco femoralis · also called aplomado falcons
Working together in coordinated pairs to flush and chase prey low across open grassland, an aplomado falcon ranges further than almost any other falcon species, breeding anywhere from the southern United States down toward Patagonia.
Overview
The aplomado falcon, Falco femoralis, is a Least Concern bird of prey native to grassland and savanna habitat stretching from the southern United States to Patagonia. Its cooperative hunting behaviour, striking bold plumage, and exceptionally long latitudinal range make it one of the more behaviourally and geographically remarkable falcons found anywhere in the Americas.
A falcon that hunts as a team
While most falcons hunt alone, the aplomado falcon sometimes works in coordinated pairs, one bird driving prey toward the other in a technique that boosts hunting success across the open grassland and savanna it calls home.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and generally stable across most of its extensive range, though some northern populations required reintroduction after historical declines.
Aplomado Falcon: common questions
Does the aplomado falcon hunt alone or with a partner?
This species sometimes hunts cooperatively in pairs, with one bird flushing prey toward its partner in a coordinated low-level chase across open ground.
How can you identify an aplomado falcon?
This species has a striking, boldly patterned plumage with a dark back, pale throat, and a black band across the chest, making it relatively easy to identify in flight.
How far does the aplomado falcon's range extend?
This species has an enormous overall range, breeding from the southern United States through Central America and much of South America down toward Patagonia.
Has the aplomado falcon needed conservation help anywhere?
Yes, this species has been the focus of reintroduction efforts in parts of its northern range, where it had disappeared due to habitat loss and pesticide use before recovering with human assistance.