Falcons are among the most impressive birds of prey in the world. They are known for their majestic appearance, incredible hunting abilities, and remarkable speed and agility. But did you know that there are actually many different species of falcon? In this guide, we will take a closer look at the various breeds of falcon that can be found around the world.

1. Peregrine Falcon

The Peregrine Falcon is perhaps the most famous species of falcon. It is found on every continent except for Antarctica and is known for its incredible speed, which allows it to reach speeds of up to 240 mph when diving in pursuit of its prey. The Peregrine Falcon is also known for its distinctive black “moustache” markings on its face.

2. Gyrfalcon

The Gyrfalcon is the largest species of falcon, and is found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is known for its white plumage and distinctive black bars on its wings.

3. American Kestrel

The American Kestrel, also known as the Sparrow Hawk, is the smallest falcon found in North America. It is known for its distinctive reddish-brown back and blue-grey wings.

4. Saker Falcon

The Saker Falcon is found in the grasslands and desert regions of Europe and Asia. It is known for its large size and powerful wings, which allow it to hunt a wide variety of prey.

5. Lanner Falcon

The Lanner Falcon is found in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. It is known for its distinctive black “sideburns” and its ability to hunt in pairs.

6. Merlin Falcon

The Merlin Falcon is found throughout North America and Eurasia. It is known for its small size and incredible speed, which allows it to catch small birds in mid-flight.

7. Aplomado Falcon

The Aplomado Falcon is found in parts of North and South America. It is known for its distinctive black facial markings and its ability to catch birds in mid-air.