Black Falcon

Falco subniger Gray, GR, 1843

Black Falcon, Falco subniger, is a falcon of Australia, breeding across the mainland states and territories except Tasmania. It belongs to the Falconidae and was described by Gray, GR, in 1843. The bird is Australia’s most under-studied falcon. It is a medium-large species with a streamlined body, a relatively long tail and slim build. Its wings are long and pointed, narrowing towards the tips. Plumage is uniformly dark brown to sooty black, with juveniles usually darker than adults. Adults may show a dark line beneath the eye, and occasional white or barred markings can appear on the chin or underparts.

Order

Falconiformes

Family

Falconidae — Caracaras, Falcons

Breeding range

Australasia: Australia (except Tasmania)