Falco Alpina
| Falco Alpina | |
|---|---|
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| Avian | |
| Official Name | Falco Alpina |
| Common Nicknames | Greater Alpine Falcon |
| Classification | Avian |
| Habitat | Snowy Alpine Regions |
| Domesticated | Yes, as Falconry Birds |
| Current Status | Rare |
The Falco Alpina, also known as the Greater Alpine Falcon, is a large Avian of the Falco genus, found in alpine regions with snow. Sometimes considered to be extinct or not real, this avian makes for an exquisite falconry bird, and is as of yet the largest falcon known to the general populace.
History
The Falco Alpina is a relatively new entry to the Falco genus, having been spotted and documented officially only within the last decade. Due to this, there is minimal history to speak of for the bird. Several reports by independent bird watchers have come out suggesting that the bird was spotted prior to its initial discovery, though these reports are as of yet unfounded. Bearing a striking appearance that makes it difficult to spot in flight, the existence of this bird is still disputed in some academic circles. For those who are aware of its existence however, the Falco Alpina is known as an amazing falconry bird.
Physical Appearance
The Greater Alpine Falcon is a large bird, measuring 60cm to 78cm in length for males, with a weight between 1800 and 2200 grams and a wingspan of 130cm to 150cm. For females, their length can vary from 70cm to 89cm, with a weight between 2000 and 2500 grams, and a wingspan of 150cm to 170cm. A notable Greater Alpine Falcon is a female specimen named Lucy, who came in at 87cm long, with a weight around 1600 grams, and a wingspan of 170cm. Being a dimorphic species, the Falco Alpina has the unique trait of inbuilt passive camouflage, owing to its sky blue underside and its snow white topside, which helps to protect it from predators above and hide from prey below when hunting. With an average horizontal speed of 223-297km per hour and a maximum air speed of 547km (whilst diving), they are acutely qualified to catch fast-moving prey.
Additional Information
This species can be trained for falconry, however it can not be, and should not be considered, fully domesticated, and as such should be viewed with caution when interacting with them. For reasons unknown, they have a particular disdain for dogs, and as such should not be allowed near them.
Trivia
- Due to its camouflage, the Falco Alpina is often considered one of the more dangerous birds to encounter. When it decides to dive, its prey can see both the white and blue, but by that point, it is travelling too quickly to be evaded.
- The Greater Alpine Falcon is highly protective of its eggs, and has supposedly dove on whole groups of humans who attempted to take its eggs.
- Unlike most other Falcon species, the Falco Alpina is a group bird, and as such they generally hunt in groups of 3-10.
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