Saker Falcon
Falco cherrug
Also known as: Saker
The Saker Falcon is a large, powerful falcon found across the open plains and steppes of Eurasia and Africa. It is highly prized in traditional Arab falconry due to its aggressive hunting style and endurance. Sadly, the species is currently endangered due to habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade.
Saker Falcon Quick Facts
Frequently Asked Questions About the Saker Falcon
Across open steppe landscapes, suitable cliffs or large trees can be scarce, so Saker Falcons readily use pylons and power poles that already hold old nests or artificial platforms. In some countries, conservation groups actively install these structures to give the species safer nesting options.
The Saker Falcon can be found in Eurasia and is most often associated with Open grasslands, steppes, semi-deserts.
The Saker Falcon feeds on Birds, small mammals and is considered a carnivore.
The Saker Falcon is currently listed as Endangered, with a decreasing population trend. Main threats include Illegal trade, Electrocution, Agriculture.
The Saker Falcon is usually solitary.
The Saker Falcon is typically diurnal.
The Saker Falcon is partially migratory.
The main threats facing the Saker Falcon include Illegal trade, Electrocution, and Agriculture.
The Saker Falcon population trend is currently decreasing.
Well-known places to look for the Saker Falcon include Pannonian Plain (Hungary) and Kazakhstan.
Natural predators of the Saker Falcon include Large eagles.
The national bird of Hungary and a symbol of prestige in Middle Eastern falconry.
The Saker Falcon is part of the Falconidae family and a Falconiformes order.
The Saker Falcon weighs about 1.1 kg, stands around 50 cm tall, reaches about 55 cm in length, and has a wingspan of about 125 cm.
The Saker Falcon can reach speeds of around 150 km/h.
