Falcons, known for their speed, are raptors found across Florida’s diverse landscapes. Utilizing pointed wings and powerful flight, they hunt effectively. Florida hosts a mix of year-round residents and seasonal migrants, providing observation opportunities as different species arrive and depart.
The Species of Falcon Found in Florida
Florida is home to three main falcon species. The American Kestrel is the smallest and most common falcon in North America, with a resident subspecies, the Southeastern American Kestrel, living in Florida year-round. The state also receives an influx of northern American Kestrels that migrate south for the winter.
The other two species are primarily winter visitors and migrants. The Merlin is a compact, fast-flying falcon that migrates from northern forests, typically arriving in the fall and remaining through the winter months. The Peregrine Falcon is a regular sight during seasonal migrations but does not breed in Florida.
Distinctive Features for Identification
Observing size and plumage is the most effective way to tell Florida’s falcons apart.
American Kestrel
The American Kestrel is the smallest of the three, comparable in size to a Mourning Dove. Males feature bluish-gray wings and a rusty back and tail, while females have more uniformly brown wings. Both sexes display two distinct black vertical markings on their white faces, often described as “tears” or a “mustache.”
Merlin
The Merlin is slightly larger and stockier than the American Kestrel, lacking bright coloration. Merlins are generally dark and streaky; males have a slate-gray back and streaked underparts, while females and immatures are browner. Unlike the kestrel, the Merlin rarely hovers, flying instead with a strong, direct pattern using rapid wingbeats.
Peregrine Falcon
The Peregrine Falcon is the largest falcon found in Florida, featuring a powerful body and long, pointed wings. Its most recognizable features include a dark, slate-gray back and a distinct dark hood that extends down the face. This dark coloration forms a prominent black wedge or “malar stripe” below the eye. The Peregrine is known for its incredible speed, reaching over 200 miles per hour during a hunting stoop.
Typical Habitats and Seasonal Presence
The resident Southeastern American Kestrel is found year-round in open woodlands, sandhills, and fire-maintained pine savannahs across peninsular Florida. They frequently perch on utility poles and wires overlooking open pastures and fields to hunt for insects and small mammals.
Migratory Merlins are winter visitors, commonly seen from October through March. They favor open areas, including wetlands, coastal areas, and barrier islands, where they specialize in catching small birds in mid-air. Merlins also adapt to suburban environments with open fields.
Peregrine Falcons are typically seen during fall and spring migrations, with some overwintering in the state. They often follow coastlines and major waterways, which provide abundant prey like shorebirds. They also adapt well to urban environments, using tall man-made structures as high perches.