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Falcons in Missouri (4 Species With Pictures)

Compared to hawks, falcons have longer wings and are built for speed. Hawks typically fly slower and kill their prey with their talons rather than their beaks like falcons do. In this article we’ll look at the 4 species of falcons in Missouri. In addition to pictures and some interesting facts about each species, we’ll learn about where and when they can be found in the state of Missouri. 

4 species of falcons in Missouri

The 4 species of falcons found in the state of Missouri are the American Kestrel, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, and the Prairie Falcon. 

1. American Kestrel

Length: 8.7-12.2 in
Weight: 2.8-5.8 oz
Wingspan: 20.1-24.0 in

The American Kestrel is North America’s smallest falcon, but don’t let that fool you. Kestrels are fierce predators that can take down other birds as big or bigger than they are, such as Northern Flickers. They primarily feed on insects and invertebrates, but also eat small mammals and other birds.  They can be found throughout Missouri all year, however some kestrels that live further south may migrate north to breed. 

These tiny falcons have small heads and beaks as well as some beautiful markings, especially the males with their blue wings and brown spots. Both male and female of this species have dark vertical stripes on their heads and are very pretty birds. Look for them in the summer when they are most active on fence posts and telephone wires when driving, especially when out in the country or rural areas.  


2. Merlin

Length: 9.4-11.8 in
Weight: 5.6-8.5 oz
Wingspan: 20.9-26.8 in

Merlins are another small falcon in Missouri. They can be seen in the state during times of migration. These migratory birds fly north to Canada, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest to breed each year. Their primary food source is other birds and are known for hunting in pairs allowing them to be extremely effective hunters. Merlins are slightly larger than kestrels and like kestrels, the females are larger than the males. 

Merlins are very widespread raptors and can be found in some capacity in all of North America. In the early 20th century their population was on the decline, but they have since recovered and are listed as low concern. Merlins are usually on the move stalking sparrows and other small birds so they aren’t easy to spot. When they aren’t in flight they’re perched high in the treetops and thinking about their next meal. So keep an eye out near forest edges and on low perches in open grasslands. 


3. Peregrine Falcon

Length: 14.2-19.3 in
Weight: 18.7-56.4 oz
Wingspan: 39.4-43.3 in

Peregrine Falcons have a migratory range in the state of Missouri. Though it appears they have a small year-round populations near St Louis and the Mark Twain National Forest. Many Peregrines migrate far north to arctic regions of Canada and even Greenland each year to breed. At one point in the mid 20th century their population was almost eradicated due to pesticides, they have since made a comeback and are regularly seen in the wild. 

Peregrines are not only the fastest bird, but the fastest animals on the planet reaching speeds of well over 200 mph when diving for prey. Some sources claim up to 240 mph. They can be found in many National Parks in the United States including the Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone, Acadia, Rocky Mountain, and Zion. There are an estimated 23,000 Peregrine Falcons currently living in the United States.


4. Prairie Falcon 

Photo by: Deanna Nichols/ USFWS | CC 2.0

Length: 14.6-18.5 in
Weight: 14.8-38.8 oz
Wingspan: 35.4-44.5 in

Prairie Falcons prefer wide open spaces like grasslands and fields where they soar high overhead looking for their next meal which is usually small mammals or other birds. They are found in Central Missouri during the Winter months, and the western half of the United States year-round.

Photo by: Tom Koerner/USFWS | CC 2.0

Prairie Falcons, like Peregrines, are one of the most popular birds for falconry and hunting. Look for them soaring overhead with a pair of binoculars, or even perched along fence posts or on cliffs. Their brown colors do make them somewhat camouflaged and difficult to spot sometimes. Prairie Falcons are larger than a Merlin, but slightly smaller than a Peregrine Falcon.