Prairie falcon
Prairie falcon - Falco mexicanus
By Matthew Goulet
Animal Diversity Web
University of Michigan
Museum of Zoology
Habitat
In spring and fall migrations, prairie falcons prefer open grassland habitats, although they are found in forested habitats in Canada during migrations as well. In winter, prairie falcons prefer open desert and grassland habitats. Prairie falcons breed in open, arid grasslands with cliffs and bluffs for nesting. Nesting sites are commonly shared with common ravens (Corvus corax), golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), and red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis). (Steenhof, 1998)
Food Habits
During the breeding season the most common prey for these falcons are ground squirrels (Spermophilus), including Townsend’s ground squirrels (Spermophilus townsendii), Belding’s ground squirrels (Spermophilus beldingi) and Richardson’s ground squirrels (Spermophilus richarsonii). These falcons also eat small birds, such as horned larks (Eremophila alestris), western meadowlarks (Sturnella neglecta), mourning doves (Zenaida macroura), brown-capped rosy finches (Leucosticte ausralis), and blackbirds (Icteridae). Reptiles and large insects may also be taken. (Steenhof, 1998; Terres, 1980)
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