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Australasian Harrier and NZ Falcon

Among my many interests is Photography and this year I have set my self a target of taking a great shot of both these birds. The more common bird you will sight is the Australasian Harrier, the Falcon is much rarer.
To this end I need to locate there nesting area, so would appreciate any details of any sightings of these birds, particularly pairs and especially if you see them more than once on the ground in a location.

Falcon


Australasian Harrier


  • Size: Magpie size.
  • ½ size of a Harrier
  • Description: Dark and fast.
  • Black above - buff barred and streaked below.
  • Brown eyes. Long toes (talons).
  • Flight Characteristics: Flies fast - rapid wing beat.
  • Soaring: Wings flat for short time.
  • Hunting: Very fast - stoops.
  • Chases smaller birds.
  • Typical Prey: Small birds.
  • Doesn't eat carrion
  • Call: Rapid, piercing
  • Kek-Kek-Kek
  • Size: Black-backed gull size
  • Description: Larger. Juvenile dark brown.
  • Gets paler with age.
  • Light rump, streaked light brown to pale/grey silver.
  • Yellow eyes & long legs.
  • Flight Characteristics: Slow flight often flap-glide-flap.
  • Soaring: Wings held in shallow 'V' for lengthy periods.
  • Hunting: Searches slowly into wind.
  • Quarters open country. Drops on prey.
  • Typical Prey: Mammals.
  • Eats carrion.
  • Call: Generally silent.
  • Plaintive Kee-a
Male Adult Falcon  
falcon Not all these are my photos (I wish) but many have been given to me by people who know of my interest.
There are a number of website relating to NZ Raptors. My Email is nzfalcon@login.co.nz
Your in my sight
NZ Falcon Trass Valley Nelson NZ Falcon Trass Valley Nelson
falcon falcon
NZ Falcon Crohane NZ Falcon Flying
falcon falcon
Young HarrierAustralasian Harrier
falcon falcon