African pygmy falcon - Middle Africa Desert Secondary Carnivores

African pygmy falcon
By Daniel Davieau
Animal Diversity Web
University of Michigan
Museum of Zoology

Habitat
African pygmy falcons inhabit dry, arid climates with sparse vegetation. These areas may receive as little as 100 mm/year of precipitation, or up to 600 mm/year (Brown, et. al, 1982). With the exception of a few non-breeding members, African pygmy falcons almost exclusively inhabit areas where social weavers (Philetairus socius, in the SW portion of its range) or white-headed buffalo weavers (Dinemellia dinemelli, in the NE portion of its range) reside. (Brown, Urban, and Newman, 1982; del Hoyo, Elliot, and Sargatal, 1994)

Food Habits
African pygymy falcons are carnivorous, with a diet consisting of mostly insects and lizards. Smaller birds and certain rodents are also sometimes preyed on. Occasionally these falcons will prey on weavers (Ploceidae) or their hatchlings when inhabiting their nests. It is believed that insects alone are insufficient for the dietary needs of young pygmy falcons. Lizards, rodents, and birds are crucial for the survival of the young. The falcon catches its prey by swooping quickly from the branch of a tree. (Brown, Urban, and Newman, 1982; del Hoyo, Elliot, and Sargatal, 1994; Spotiswoode et al., 2004)

Please visit the website to learn more; click on a photo to enlarge.