Pygmy Falcon

The African pygmy falcon, or simply pygmy falcon, is a diminutive raptor that graces the skies of eastern and southern Africa. It holds the distinction of being the smallest bird of prey on the African continent. With a modest length of 20 cm (7.9 in) and a weight ranging from 54 to 76 g (1.9–2.7 oz), it is surpassed in size only by the Asian falconets.

Identification Tips

Adult pygmy falcons are characterized by their white underparts, which extend up to the face. Males boast a sleek grey back, while females display a rich chestnut coloration. Both sexes have distinctive white "eye spots" on the nape. The juveniles, on the other hand, present a brown back, less vivid than that of the adult females, and a rufous wash on the breast. Their wings are adorned with black and white spots (predominantly black above and white below), and their tails feature black and white bars.

Habitat

These birds favor the arid bush landscapes as their home.

Distribution

The pygmy falcon's range spans from South Sudan and Somalia, stretching southward to Uganda and Tanzania, and from Angola reaching to northern South Africa. This extensive range covers an estimated area of 2.7 million km².

Behaviour

Pygmy falcons exhibit physiological adaptations that are beneficial in regions affected by the environmental variability of the El Niño Southern Oscillation cycle and fluctuating food sources. They utilize the thermal buffering provided by sociable weaver colonies and engage in communal roosting to regulate their body temperature, thus reducing their energy needs for thermoregulation during rest.

Song & Calls

The pygmy falcon's vocalizations include a high-pitched "kikiKIK," which is often repeated, as well as a series of "chip-chip" and "kik-kik-kik-kik" sounds.

Breeding

In Kenya, these falcons nest within the nests of white-headed buffalo weavers, and their ranges overlap. In southern Africa, they are more commonly associated with red-billed buffalo weaver nests but primarily take up residence in the unoccupied chambers of sociable weaver nests. Despite their predatory nature and larger size compared to sociable weavers, pygmy falcons generally do not prey on the weavers, although occasional predation on nestlings and adults does occur.

Similar Species

Due to their small size and feather coloring, pygmy falcons may superficially resemble some species of shrikes.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of pygmy falcons consists mainly of reptiles and insects, but they may also hunt small birds, rodents, and other small mammals suitable for their size. They employ a hunting strategy that involves perching high and swooping down on their prey.

Conservation Status

The pygmy falcon is currently not considered threatened, with a population estimated to be at least 100,000 individuals and potentially reaching up to one million at its peak.