The collared forest falcon is a species of bird of prey in the family Falconidae. It is the largest member of the Micrastur genus and a common inhabitant of tropical rainforests in Latin America. Hiding in the dense forest canopy, they are a secretive bird often only recognized by their distinctive call. With a morphology or body type allowing them to be agile in their forested habitat, their diet comprises a wide variety of prey from smaller frogs to adult turkeys (2.7-3.2 kg).
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Found from southern Mexico through Central America and much of northern and central South America, including the Amazon Basin. It inhabits primary evergreen rainforest, tall secondary growth, gallery forests, and forest edges, but generally avoids open country. The species favors dense cover for ambush hunting and perches within the midstory to canopy. It can occur near clearings and along rivers where prey is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The collared forest falcon is the largest member of the Micrastur forest-falcon group, adapted for stealth hunting within dense tropical forests. Its long tail and short, rounded wings allow agile maneuvering through understory and canopy. Often detected by its far-carrying, mournful whistles at dawn, it hunts a wide range of prey from frogs and lizards to large birds and mammals.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile glides through forest
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside the breeding season, defending hunting territories within forest. Forms monogamous pairs during breeding, nesting in large tree cavities. Clutch is typically 2–3 eggs, with both adults provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of loud, mournful, whistled notes that carry far through the forest, most frequent at dawn. Also gives sharp, barking calls and repeated hoots during territorial and breeding displays.
