Gyr falcon. Head of a gyr falcon (Falco rusticolus). This bird is amongst the largest of the falcons, reaching a length of over 60 centimetres. It inh

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Gyr falcon. Head of a gyr falcon (Falco rusticolus). This bird is amongst the largest of the falcons, reaching a length of over 60 centimetres. It inhabits the far north of the northern hemisphere. It is known for its fast, low flight, which it uses to surprise its prey. It mainly attacks other birds, such as ptarmigans and seabirds, but it will also take mammals such as lemmings and hares. Gyr falcons were once highly prized as hunting birds by falconers in the Middle Ages. They nest on rocky outcrops near the coast, or in trees in forested areas. Pairs are thought to stay together for life.

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Size: 5151px × 3429px
Photo credit: © DAVID AUBREY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: animal, biological, biology, bird, carnivore, carnivorous, falco, falcon, fauna, gyr, head, nature, ornithological, ornithology, predator, prey, rusticolus, single, wildlife, zoological, zoology