icon of person Membership icon of ticket Buy Tickets

Though it is the smallest raptor in Africa, the African pygmy falcon is a powerful predator. Preferring to hunt early and late in the day to avoid the midday heat, the falcon perches and searches the ground for insects, lizards and other small animals. With a swoop, it snatches up prey in its talons.

pygmy falcon sitting on gloved finger

Did You Know?

Male or Female? Female falcons sport a brown patch on their backs while the backs of males are overall gray.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Polihierax semitorquatus

Range:
Eastern and Southern Africa

Habitat:
Savannah

Length:
7 to 8 in

Lifespan:
7 yrs

Zoo Location:
Wings of Wonder

Diet:
Insects, lizards, birds and rodents