Observations on Hunting and Breeding Behaviour of the Black Falcon ('Falco Subniger')

Abstract

Observations on the Black Falcon ('Falco subniger') are presented that add to previous, incomplete studies of the falcon's breeding biology and behaviour, vocalisations, prey and hunting methods. Observations are mostly from two Black Falcon pairs that were monitored at separate locations (Gundagai and Tamworth) in the New South Wales sheep-wheat belt. At the nest of the pair at Gundagai (which later failed at the downy chick stage), the male brought food to the incubating female, but was not seen to share incubation; a Brown Falcon ('Falco berigora') later briefly occupied the failed, vacated nest, but did not subsequently use it. The pair of Black Falcons at Tamworth was often observed to hunt feral Rock Doves ('Columba livia'), sometimes co-operatively. The pair apparently did not breed, and appeared to experience competition for potential nest sites from other raptors and corvids. A fresh juvenile specimen, found road-killed near the suspected nest area of a second pair at Tamworth, is described. Observations on interactions with other raptors are also presented, along with brief notes on Black Falcon hunting and roosting in Queensland.