PRAIRIE FALCON
355. Falco mexicanus. 18 in.
A blackish patch on the sides of the throat, similar to that of the [Duck Hawk]. Above brownish black, much paler and never with the slaty color of the Duck Hawk; below streaked or spotted with blackish brown. These falcons are fairly abundant on the western plains and prairies, and are also found in wooded mountain regions. They are strong and active and will fight fiercely if captured. They live upon small mammals, birds and occasionally, grouse. Their flight is very swift and accomplished by rapid wing beats, with occasional sailings.
Notes.—A cackle, and rapidly repeated “kee-kee-kee.” (Bendire).
Nest.—A mass of sticks and trash, on bluffs or rocky ledges, and sometimes in trees; eggs reddish buff, thickly sprinkled and blotched with brown (2.50 × 1.60).
Range.—Eastern border of the Great Plains to the Pacific; and from Saskatchewan to southern Mexico.
