Brown Falcon

Identification

The Brown Falcon is a relatively large falcon, typically 40 to 50 centimetres long. Adults display either pale or dark plumage morphs, with several intermediate forms. Both morphs share dark brown upper parts and wing coverts, but differ markedly below. Dark morph birds have predominantly dark underparts with some light streaking, while pale morph birds feature white underparts that are variably streaked with brown—sometimes heavily so. Pale individuals often display prominently white under tail coverts, which can be diagnostic. All birds have distinctive red-brown heads with narrow black streaks and a light crown, off-white chin, spotted red-brown wings with dark brown quills, light blue-grey beaks, and brown eyes. A loud, high-pitched cackle call—reminiscent of a laying hen—uttered frequently, is characteristic.

Range & Habitat

The Brown Falcon is native to Australia and New Guinea. Two subspecies are recognised: F. b. novaeguineae occurs in central and eastern New Guinea and coastal northern Australia, while F. b. berigora inhabits Australia (except the coastal north) and Tasmania. The species occupies diverse habitats across these regions, from coastal areas to inland environments.

Behaviour & Diet

Brown Falcons are opportunistic hunters with a varied diet. They prey on small mammals including house mice and young rabbits (particularly in summer), small birds, lizards, snakes, and numerous invertebrates—caterpillars, grasshoppers, crickets, and beetles. During winter, insects form the bulk of their diet, and the falcons often pursue prey on the ground. Breeding occurs from June to November, typically using old nests of larger passerines or other hawk species, though they occasionally nest in hollow tree limbs. Females lay between two and five eggs marked with red and brown spots and blotches.

During the breeding season, Brown Falcons are notably vocal, producing loud, high-pitched cackles and screeching calls in flight. Intriguingly, anecdotal evidence from Australian firefighters and Aboriginal people, documented in historical literature and comprising 14 firsthand narratives, suggests that Brown Falcons and other Australian firehawks may pick up burning sticks and drop them to spread fires, thereby driving prey into the open.

Best Time & Places to See It

The breeding season from June to November offers excellent opportunities to locate Brown Falcons, as their loud vocalizations make them more conspicuous. The species' presence across much of mainland Australia and Tasmania means it can be encountered in many regions. Look for them in open and semi-open habitats where they hunt for small prey on the ground and in the air.

Photography Tips

Capture the subtle plumage variations that distinguish pale and dark morphs—pay particular attention to the white under tail coverts on pale individuals, which can be diagnostic. The falcon's active hunting behaviour, especially ground pursuits of insects, offers dynamic shooting opportunities. During breeding season, the bird's vocal displays and in-flight screeching provide chances for action photography. The contrasting red-brown head markings and spotted wing patterns reward close-up portraiture when perched.