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3 unusual facts about Taita Falcon


Taita Falcon

Threats to the species come from the use of organochlorine pesticide sprays in northern Zimbabwe which may have reduced numbers there, and pesticide-spraying (e.g. through operations to control Red-billed Quelea and locusts) may pose a threat in other regions.

Reasons for its scarcity in East Africa possibly include competition for food and nest sites with the larger and more dominant Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) and predation of young by the Peregrine Falcon, Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus) and owls.

The rufous belly causes resemblance with African Hobby, but important features to look out for are a white throat and the obvious rufous patches on the nape.



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