Gyrfalcon
The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus), also spelled gerfalcon, is a bird of prey, the largest of the falcon species. It breeds on Arctic coasts and tundra, and the islands of northern North America, Europe, and Asia. It is mainly a resident there also, but some gyrfalcons disperse more widely after the breeding season, or in winter. Individual vagrancy can take birds for long distances. Its plumage varies with location, with birds being coloured from all-white to dark brown. These colour variations are called morphs. Like other falcons, it shows sexual dimorphism, with the female much larger than the male. For centuries the gyrfalcon has been a precious hunting bird, highly valued among the Vikings. Typical prey includes the ptarmigan and waterfowl, which it may take in flight. It has also been observed feeding on fish and mammals.
This is a juvenile male and part of a breeding program here in the UK. On the day of our visit he was being trained to hunt!
Click the pic to view large!
Gyrfalcon
The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus), also spelled gerfalcon, is a bird of prey, the largest of the falcon species. It breeds on Arctic coasts and tundra, and the islands of northern North America, Europe, and Asia. It is mainly a resident there also, but some gyrfalcons disperse more widely after the breeding season, or in winter. Individual vagrancy can take birds for long distances. Its plumage varies with location, with birds being coloured from all-white to dark brown. These colour variations are called morphs. Like other falcons, it shows sexual dimorphism, with the female much larger than the male. For centuries the gyrfalcon has been a precious hunting bird, highly valued among the Vikings. Typical prey includes the ptarmigan and waterfowl, which it may take in flight. It has also been observed feeding on fish and mammals.
This is a juvenile male and part of a breeding program here in the UK. On the day of our visit he was being trained to hunt!
Click the pic to view large!