Falco rusticolus
Gyrfalcon / Jaktfalk / Gyrfalcon
Falco rusticolus
Illustration: Falco rusticolus
- Plumage: Dense, heavy-set plumage ranging from pale slate-grey with dark transverse barring to almost white with fine dark flecks; broad, pointed wings. - Beak: Massive, strongly hooked bluish-grey bill with a prominent tomial tooth and a bright yellow cere at the base. - Body build: World's largest falcon species, heavy-chested and broad-shouldered with a wingspan of 110–130 cm and feathered upper thighs. - Distinctive details: Bright yellow orbital ring surrounding large dark eyes, powerful yellow feet with thick talons, short square tail with faint dark bands.
In the vast fell regions of Västerbotten, the gyrfalcon preys heavily on ptarmigans. Its population is tightly linked to the cyclical availability of its prey in the alpine tundra.
Facts & Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Falco rusticolus
- Category / Order: Vögel (Aves)
- Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten: Nature, Taiga & Waters of Västerbotten
- Native to Northern Sweden: Native to Northern Sweden
Questions & Answers (FAQ)
What is the gyrfalcon?
The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) is the largest falcon species in the world and an apex predator of Arctic and sub-Arctic ecosystems.
Where does this species live?
It inhabits the treeless fell and tundra regions of Scandinavia above the tree line, often nesting on inaccessible cliff faces.