Ontbirders,
We have new information from a reliable source about the identity and
origin of Toronto's mystery falcon, which was seen in January. It is a
hybrid Gyrfalcon x Barbary Falcon. It is a juvenile female that escaped
while being moved to a transport crate for export.
It was first identified as a Prairie Falcon. Based on photos, it was
thought most likely to be a possible hybrid Gyrfalcon x Saker Falcon.
Others suggested that it was a Gyrfalcon x Peregrine, pure Gyrfalcon,
Tundra Peregrine, Introduced Peregrine, etc. You can see photos of this
falcon on Jean's website via her signature below.
The Barbary Falcon is closely related to the Peregrine Falcon, but is
smaller and less bulky with a narrower moustachial streak. It is native to
northern Africa and the Middle East.
Happy birding,
Ron Pittaway
Minden and Toronto
Jean Iron
http://www3.sympatico.ca/jeaniron/
9 Lichen Place
Toronto ON M3A 1X3
416-445-9297
Jean Iron <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Visit http://www.ofo.ca/ontbirdsguide.htm for information on leaving
and joining the list. As well as general information and content
guidelines.
