Ferruginous Hawk vs Amur Falcon
Buteo regalis versus Falco amurensis
Play a quiz with Ferruginous Hawk and Amur Falcon
Ferruginous Hawk
Amur Falcon
In short
The Ferruginous Hawk and Amur Falcon are distinct in both size and appearance. The Ferruginous Hawk is a large, broad-winged raptor, while the Amur Falcon is a small, slender falcon. Key differences include the hawk's pale underparts and rufous coloration versus the falcon's dark slate-gray plumage.
Identification tips
1. Size and Shape: Ferruginous Hawk is much larger and bulkier. 2. Plumage: Look for the hawk's rufous shoulders and pale underparts versus the falcon's dark slate-gray body. 3. Behavior: Note the hawk's soaring flight compared to the falcon's agile, flocking behavior. 4. Habitat: Consider the open grasslands for Ferruginous Hawks and more wooded or water-adjacent areas for Amur Falcons.
Size
The Ferruginous Hawk is significantly larger and bulkier than the Amur Falcon, with broader wings and a heavier build.
Plumage
Ferruginous Hawks have pale underparts with rufous shoulders and legs, while Amur Falcons are dark slate-gray with a distinct white throat and reddish-brown underwings in males.
Behaviour
Ferruginous Hawks are often seen soaring over open plains, whereas Amur Falcons are more agile in flight, often seen in flocks during migration.
Habitat
Ferruginous Hawks inhabit open grasslands and prairies, while Amur Falcons prefer open woodlands and are often seen near water bodies during migration.
Voice
Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species, as they are not often heard vocalizing in the field.