The Teita Falcon has a body length of 10 - 12 inches
an approximate wingspan of 1 1/2 - 2 feet, and weighs 7 1/2 - 11 ounces.
Teita Falcons roost and nest in high cliffs and hunt over the dry terrain below in eastern and southeastern Africa.
This falcon eats mostly birds and some insects.
The prey is taken in the air after the falcon dives toward the prey from a perch or during flight.
Teita Falcons nest in protected holes on cliff faces.
The female lays 2 - 4 eggs in a scrape or old stick nest.
The eggs are incubated for 31 - 33 days.
The young falcons fledge at 42 days and are independent of parental care about 3 weeks later.
The scientific name comes from the Latin words falco, meaning hook-shaped (falcate) and may refer to the beak or claws; fascia, pertaining to streaks or bands; and nucha, referring to the back of the head (nape). The common name is from the Teita Hills in Kenya, Africa where the bird was first discovered.
The common name can also be spelled Taita Falcon.
FACTS:
-The robust, long-winged Teita Falcons have a short tail.
Their flight is fast and somewhat heavy looking, but they are adept at aerial hunting.
-Most birds of prey show color differences between juvenile and adult birds.
This may help to provide the young with
better camouflage and reduce conflicts with aggressive adults defending their territory.
