The Falcon is the Official National Bird of Qatar. They are commonly known as “Hunting Dogs of Skies”. Falcon is the Most Powerful, Large, and Majestic bird of all bird species. Most Middle East countries recognize the importance of falconry in their tradition and culture. In Qatar, there are 6 different kinds of falcons; the Amur falcon, Sooty Falcon, Lanner falcon, Saker falcon, Peregrine falcon, and the Barbary falcon.
Falcon is used as a hunting tool because of its sharp eyesight and is associated with being noble and wealthy. It is a popular pet but has to be cared for appropriately and undergo intensive training. Falconry, like camel racing and horse riding, is a traditional quest in most countries of the Middle East. The more popular hunting falcons such as Peregrine and Saker are conventionally trapped during their autumn migration. They are used for hunting during the season and then released to the wild.
Falcon Classification
- COMMON NAME: Peregrine Falcon
- SCIENTIFIC NAME: Falco peregrinus
- TYPE: Birds
- DIET: Carnivore
- AVERAGE LIFE SPAN IN THE WILD: Up to 17 years
- SIZE: Body: 14 to 19 inches; wingspan: 3.3 to 3.6 feet
- WEIGHT: 18.8 to 56.5 ounces
National Bird of Qatar Falcon birds can range from 13 to 23 inches, weighing approximately 1.5 to 3.3 pounds. Most of these prey birds ultimately range from small to medium size, and their head is adorned with a black crown of feathers. This blackness extends to their nap and wedge as well, connecting the colors to loos like a helmet over the bird’s head. With long and pointed wings, these features are typically slate grey, creating a distinct contrast with the head.
Falcon Facts!
- The fastest animal on earth is the peregrine falcon. Peregrine falcons have been clocked at reaching speeds of 242 miles per hour while diving for prey, making them the fastest recorded animal ever. It is nearly four times the speed of the fastest land animal (which is the cheetah).
- These birds can catch their food while they are in mid-flight with their beaks.
- Scientists estimate that falcon vision is eight times better than humans. This allows the birds to spot small prey from nearly two miles away, and then swoop down precisely to catch it.
- Peregrine falcons are also durable. They’re thought to migrate as much as 15,500 miles a year, traveling between continents to mate or find food. Now that’s dedication.