Orange-breasted falcon

The orange-breasted falcon is a Near Threatened bird of prey in the family Falconidae, the falcons and caracaras. It is found in southern Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, and either definitely or probably in every South American country except Chile and Uruguay.

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Distribution

Region

Central and South America

Typical Environment

Occurs from southern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, and Panama, and patchily across much of northern and central South America east of the Andes, including the Amazon and Guianas. It favors humid lowland to foothill forests with nearby cliffs, canyons, or steep escarpments for nesting. Frequently found along major rivers and forest edges where aerial prey is abundant. The species is typically local and uncommon throughout its range, with isolated breeding territories separated by large distances.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size35–45 cm

Wing Span80–95 cm

Male Weight0.5 kg

Female Weight0.8 kg

Life Expectancy12 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This elusive falcon inhabits tropical forests from southern Mexico through much of Central America and patchily across northern and central South America. It closely resembles the smaller Bat Falcon but is larger with a richer orange underparts. Pairs typically nest on cliff ledges overlooking forested valleys or rivers, rarely using large emergent trees. Its scarcity and patchy distribution make it a sought-after species for birders and conservationists.

Gallery

Falco deiroleucus adult and juvenile, illustration by Edward Neale, 1902

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

powerful flier with rapid wingbeats and high-speed stoops

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs, maintaining large territories centered on a nest cliff. Pairs form long-term bonds and reuse traditional nest ledges. Clutch sizes are small, and both adults defend the nest vigorously.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Usually quiet away from the nest, giving sharp, piercing kak-kak or kek-kek calls when excited. Near nesting sites, calls become more frequent and harsh, especially during territorial interactions or when delivering food.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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