Gyrfalcon
Overview
Gyrfalcon: Large northern falcon with three color morphs: dark, white, and gray. Dark morph is dark gray with pale streaks on throat and upper breast. White morph is white with dark spots and markings on wings, nape, and sides. Gray morph is a mix. The eyes, bill, and legs of all morphs are yellow.
Range and Habitat
Gyrfalcon: Breeds on tundra in northern Alaska and Canada. Spends winters in breeding range and regularly (but rarely) south to the northern tier of states, especially along coasts. Found in boreal forests, cliffs, and coastal areas.
INTERESTING FACTS
The Gyrfalcon is the largest true falcon in the world.
Birds that nest in the arctic regions frequently begin breeding and laying eggs when the temperature is still below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
They have been highly regarded by falconers throughout history and in the Middle Ages, only a king could hunt with a Gyrfalcon.
A group of falcons has many collective nouns, including a "bazaar", "eyrie", "ringing up", "stooping up", and "tower" of falcons.
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