Saker Falcon
Falco cherrug (J. E. Gray)

Identification: It is a brownish coloured falcon having a very pale crown and nape. It is 50 to 55 cm. in length. The upper side of the plumage is earthy brown, whereas the breast, belly and thighs are whitish having longitudinal brown drops. There is no distinct moustachial stripe and the sides of face and throat are white with dusky streaks on the ear coverts. The underside of the tail is gray-brown with large oval spots on both webs that sometimes form bars.

Habitat: It is found in open steppe, woodlands, rocky lodges and desert areas. It is a much-prized bird in falconry and is trained to strike at gazelles, houbara bustards, hares, etc.

Distribution: It is a winter visitor to NWFP, Punjab and Balochistan.

Breeding: Breeding takes place in March-June and it will lay 3 to 4 eggs per clutch.

Food: It feeds upon reptiles, birds and small mammals.

Status: Rare