Laggar Falcon
Falco jugger (J. E. Gray)

Identification: It looks smaller than the Cherrug, about 35 to 46 cm. long. Its upper plumage is dark brown but it becomes paler and grayer towards the tail. The crown and nape are whitish and there is a distinct moustachial stripe. The plumage on the breast and abdomen is white and has light brown drops. These drops are present in increased numbers on the flanks and thighs. The female is larger than the male. This bird is easily identifiable by its plumage and flight pattern, which consists of strong rapid wing beats like that of a pigeon's.

Habitat: It is found in open desert areas, thin jungles and cultivations. It is not used by falconers for hunting but is trapped largely to be used as a decoy or barrack with which to capture other larger species like the Saker and Peregrine Falcons.

Distribution: It is a resident bird of Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan and NWFP.

Breeding: It breeds from January to April and usually lays 3 to 4 eggs. It is known to breed in Balochistan and in the tribal areas of NWFP. It also breeds in the Cholistan and Thar deserts in Sindh and Punjab.

Food: It feeds on field rats, bats, lizards, mynas, babblers, quails, partridges, grasshoppers etc.

Status: Rare