Observations on a breeding pair of Black Falcons 'Falco subniger' in southern Victoria

Abstract

Successful breeding activity is described for a pair of Black Falcons 'Falco subniger' in southern Victoria (south of 37°S) in 2014 and 2015 (brood of two fledglings in each year), among the few confirmed or recent such records for the region (agricultural land and remnant woodland west of Melbourne). Courtship (supplementary) feeding at the nest, male brooding of downy chicks, growth and development of chicks, and other novel aspects of breeding behaviour and vocalisations are described. One nestling period lasted 40 days, and the post-fledging period at least a month. Prey included birds and small mammals. The fledglings and adults appeared vulnerable to vehicle- and train-strike; a roadkilled specimen is described for the district. The breeding adults were cryptic, suggesting the need for further survey for nests in the region. They were also wary and susceptible to disturbance, indicating a need for caution when approaching and observing active nests at all stages of the breeding cycle.