Red-footed Falcon vs Peregrine Falcon

In short

The Red-footed Falcon and Peregrine Falcon can be distinguished by size and plumage. The Peregrine Falcon is larger and more robust, while the Red-footed Falcon is smaller and more slender. Key plumage differences include the Peregrine's distinctive facial markings and the Red-footed Falcon's red legs and feet.

Identification tips

1. Size: Look for the larger size and robust build of the Peregrine Falcon. 2. Facial Markings: Check for the Peregrine's dark 'moustache' stripe. 3. Leg Color: Note the Red-footed Falcon's red legs and feet. 4. Plumage: Observe the uniform bluish-grey of male Red-footed Falcons versus the barred underbelly of Peregrines. 5. Behavior: Watch for the Peregrine's high-speed stoops compared to the Red-footed Falcon's insect hunting.

Size

The Peregrine Falcon is significantly larger and more powerful than the Red-footed Falcon.

Plumage

The Peregrine Falcon has a distinctive dark 'moustache' mark on its face and a barred underbelly, while the Red-footed Falcon has red legs and feet, with males showing a uniform bluish-grey plumage and females having a rufous underpart.

Behaviour

Both species are adept aerial hunters, but the Peregrine Falcon is renowned for its high-speed stoops to catch prey, whereas the Red-footed Falcon often hunts insects in flight.

Habitat

Peregrine Falcons are versatile, found in urban areas and a variety of natural habitats, while Red-footed Falcons prefer open landscapes such as steppes and agricultural areas.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.