Loch Lomond Birds of Prey

The Saker Falcon is much larger than a Peregrine Falcon. The male is similar in size to a female Peregrine, while the female can be as large as a Marsh Harrier. The upper-parts of the Saker are dark brown, the light brown streaked under-parts, dark “trousers” and pale coloured head, make this falcon easily distinguishable from other similar sized falcons such as the Lanner. The “ghostly” grey feet are another distinct feature. The Saker also has soft plumage which can easily become waterlogged. Used in falconry to a great extent in the middle-east.

The Saker prefers to live in uninhabited, arid areas of steppe, forest, or the plains of eastern Europe. Can be found in Russia, Hungary and eastern Austria. Endangered species with approximately only 1,100 breeding pairs accounted for.

Voles, rats, weasels and stoats. In addition the Saker will feed on insects and birds.