The collared falconet is a species of bird of prey in the family Falconidae.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Himalayan foothills and adjoining uplands through northeastern India, Nepal and Bhutan into Myanmar, southern China, and parts of mainland Southeast Asia. Favors forest edges, open woodland, secondary growth, orchards, and wooded farmland with scattered perches. Frequently found along river valleys and clearings where prey is abundant. It perches prominently and makes short, rapid foraging flights into open spaces. Tolerant of lightly disturbed habitats and plantations.
Altitude Range
100–2400 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The collared falconet is one of the world’s smallest birds of prey, often seen perched conspicuously on exposed twigs while scanning for prey. Its bold black-and-white face with a neat white nuchal collar gives it a striking, mask-like look. Despite its tiny size, it is a fearless hunter of large insects and occasionally small vertebrates. It often hunts in short sallies from a perch and may be encountered in pairs or small family groups.
Shot by Nikhil Fuge at Jim Corbett National Park, India
Temperament
alert and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile dashes from a perch
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. Nests in tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes or natural hollows. Pairs maintain small territories and use elevated perches for hunting and lookout.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high-pitched, squeaky whistles and sharp, repeated calls. Vocalizations are most frequent during social interactions and when alarmed.
Plumage
Compact, glossy black upperparts with a crisp white forehead, cheeks, and a distinct white nuchal collar; underparts mostly white with rufous to chestnut flanks and vent. The face shows a bold black mask and crown contrasting with the white collar. Tail and wings are dark, with the tail often showing faint barring.
Diet
Feeds primarily on large insects such as dragonflies, cicadas, beetles, and butterflies. Will also take small lizards and occasionally small birds or rodents when available. Hunts by sit-and-wait from exposed perches, making swift sallies to snatch prey in the air or off foliage.
Preferred Environment
Edges of forests, clearings, plantations, orchards, and wooded farmland with scattered tall perches. Often along river corridors and open glades where aerial insects are abundant.
