Saker Falcon

The saker falcon ranges from eastern Europe across the steppes and semi-deserts of Central Asia, with some populations migrating into southern Asia and Africa for winter. It favors broad open hunting country but nests in parkland, open forest at the tree line, mountains, and rugged cliffs. Sakers do not normally construct stick nests; instead, they appropriate nests made by other large birds or use protected cliff ledges. Females are substantially larger and heavier than males, as is typical among falcons. (Animal Diversity Web)

Small mammals may constitute sixty to ninety percent of a breeding pair’s diet, including ground squirrels, hamsters, jerboas, gerbils, hares, and pikas. Quail, sandgrouse, pheasants, ducks, herons, smaller raptors, and large lizards are also captured. Males attract females with conspicuous soaring displays and loud calls around possible nest sites. Pairs generally lay three to five eggs, although two to six may occur. Incubation lasts about thirty days and is performed mainly by the female while the male hunts. (Animal Diversity Web)