Laughing Falcon

The Laughing Falcon, Herpetotheres cachinnans, is a medium-sized raptor belonging to the Falconidae family. It is the sole member of the genus Herpetotheres, known for its distinctive vocalizations reminiscent of human laughter.

Identification Tips

This bird of prey measures 45 to 56 cm in length with a wingspan ranging from 79 to 94 cm. The females are slightly larger and notably heavier than the males. Both sexes share similar plumage, characterized by creamy white underparts, a broad dusky black facial mask extending into a narrow collar, and dusky black wings and back. The tail is also dusky black with white bands or spots, and the underside of the wing displays a pale buff color with cinnamon rufous bases on the flight feathers.

Habitat

The Laughing Falcon is found in a variety of semi-open treed landscapes, avoiding dense forest interiors. Its preferred habitats include primary and secondary forests, gallery forests, palm groves, savannas, and other open areas with scattered trees or forest patches.

Distribution

This species is widespread, ranging from Mexico through Central America and across every mainland South American country, except Chile and Uruguay. It is generally a lowland bird, reaching different elevations depending on the region.

Behaviour

The Laughing Falcon exhibits a slow flight pattern with quick, shallow wingbeats and frequent glides. It often perches conspicuously for extended periods, watching the ground intently, sometimes displaying tail flicks or nodding movements.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Laughing Falcon is quite notable, with its "advertisement call" being a series of loud, hollow notes that increase in pitch and loudness. These calls have inspired various local names in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking regions.

Breeding

Breeding seasons vary geographically, with nesting occurring in tree cavities, rock crevices, or abandoned nests of other raptors. The clutch typically consists of one egg, occasionally two, with the female solely responsible for incubation. Both parents care for the young post-hatching.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species within its range, the Laughing Falcon can be distinguished by its unique vocalizations and the rufous patch at the base of its wings when in flight.

Diet and Feeding

The Laughing Falcon primarily preys on snakes, including venomous species, and may also consume lizards, small rodents, bats, fish, and occasionally birds and centipedes. It typically hunts from a perch, dropping onto its prey with force.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Laughing Falcon as Least Concern, with an estimated population of at least half a million mature individuals. Despite a suspected population decline, there are no immediate threats to the species.