Page 7 - Cornwall Issue 3_2023

NATURE

”

THE

REMARKABLE

AMUR FALCON

On the 17th of March 2023, I photographed a female Amur
Falcon in the Rietvlei Nature Reserve near our estate.

The Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis, Afrikaans: Oostelike
Rooipootvalk) is a medium-sized bird that travels thousands of
kilometres across continents. Originating from Russia, China
and Mongolia, these falcons navigate their way through the
Himalayas, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian sub-continent.

During their migration, Amur Falcons rely on a diet composed
of insects such as dragonflies, locusts, beetles and even small
birds. They exhibit remarkable agility and precision in capturing
their prey mid-flight.

The Rietvlei Nature Reserve offers an ideal habitat for these
migratory birds, with its grasslands and wetlands providing
ample food sources. Here, the falcons join other bird species
in feeding on insects and small birds before continuing their
journey.

Breeding season for Amur Falcons takes place in May and June.
Females select suitable nesting sites in the forests of north-
eastern Asia, where they construct compact cup-shaped nests
on tree branches. Males support the females by providing food
during this period.

As winter approaches, the Amur Falcons embark on their return
journey to their breeding grounds in the northern hemisphere,
retracing their steps across continents. Their migration
represents a remarkable demonstration of resilience and
adaptability.

The Amur Falcon's presence in the Rietvlei Nature Reserve
reminds us of the inter-connectedness of our planet and the
importance of preserving their habitats.

Photography by www.ivanmullerphotography.com
082 454 8487

Cornwall View • Issue 4 2023 5