There are a few different species of falcons that can have white coloration. The most common white falcons are:
Gyrfalcon
The gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) is the largest falcon species and comes in several color variants, including all white. The white gyrfalcon is primarily found in Greenland and Iceland. It has a wingspan of up to 4.5 feet and can weigh up to 4.5 pounds. The white gyrfalcon preys primarily on ptarmigan and other birds.
Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) also has a white color variant, although not as common as the gyrfalcon. The white peregrine falcon is mostly found in the Arctic regions. Like other peregrines, it feeds mainly on other birds which it captures in flight. Peregrines can reach speeds of over 200 mph when diving for prey.
Saker Falcon
The saker falcon (Falco cherrug) is a large falcon species from Eurasia and can also be found in a rare white color variant. The white saker is smaller than a gyrfalcon with a wingspan up to 3.5 feet. It preys on other birds as well as small mammals. The saker falcon has been used in falconry for centuries.
Lanner Falcon
The lanner falcon (Falco biarmicus) is native to Africa, southeast Europe and Asia. A partial albino or “pied” morph exists where the falcon has white patches contrasting with the normal plumage. Unlike a full albino, this morph retains the normal eye coloration. The lanner hunts mainly small birds and bats.
Key Facts About White Falcons
- White coloration is rare in falcons and is caused by a lack of melanin pigmentation.
- The gyrfalcon has the highest occurrence of white morphs among falcon species.
- White falcons inhabit cold, Arctic regions which provides camouflage while hunting.
- The peregrine, gyrfalcon and saker have been used in falconry for centuries.
- White falcons can still achieve high speeds when diving for prey despite coloration.
Why Are White Falcons White?
The white coloration of these falcons is caused by a genetic condition known as leucism. Leucism prevents melanin pigment from being properly deposited in a bird’s feathers as it develops. This leads to a partial or complete lack of coloring. While very rare, white falcons can still be found in populations of the arctic-dwelling peregrine, gyrfalcon and saker.
This leucistic trait likely persisted evolutionarily because it provides camouflage while hunting the equally white ptarmigan and other arctic birds. The white plumage allows falcons to blend into the snowy landscapes of the far north. Despite the lack of melanin, the eyes, beak and feet retain their normal coloration in white falcons.
Differences Between Leucism and Albinism
While they can appear similar, leucism and albinism have distinct differences:
- Leucism – Partial loss of pigmentation in feathers, skin, fur or eyes. Eyes retain normal color.
- Albinism – Complete lack of melanin throughout body, including feathers/fur, skin and eyes. Eyes appear red.
White falcons exhibit the characteristics of leucism, not full albinism. They have normally colored eyes rather than the red eyes seen in albino birds.
Habitat and Diet
Due to their Arctic surroundings, white falcons often prey upon white ptarmigan and dovekies. The camouflage provided by their plumage allows them to stealthily approach before ambushing prey at high speeds.
Aside from ptarmigan, white falcons hunt similar prey to their normally colored counterparts. This includes other bird species, small mammals and insects. Hunting strategies involve patiently waiting in a high perch before diving towards prey once detected.
Key Habitats
- Arctic tundra
- Alpine regions
- Coastal cliffs and bluffs
Typical Prey
- Ptarmigan
- Dovekies
- Snow buntings
- Lemmings
- Voles
Use in Falconry
Both gyrfalcons and sakers have a long history of use in the ancient art of falconry. Their excellent vision, power and aerial agility allow them to pursue and capture a variety of prey. A few traits that make these species desirable for falconry include:
- Strong talons that can subdue large prey
- High flight speeds
- Ability to withstand harsh weather conditions
In particular, the Icelandic white gyrfalcon was considered the ultimate falconry bird during medieval times. Today, falcons are still valued by the community of falconers that maintain the sport.
Famous Falconry Birds
Species | Notable Examples |
---|---|
Gyrfalcon | Owned by King Henry VIII |
Saker Falcon | Favored by Emperor Akbar of Mughal India |
Peregrine Falcon | Used by Lord Pembroke during the Elizabethan era |
Population and Conservation
Overall, the major species of white falcons have stable population numbers, though some localized declines have occurred. For example, Icelandic gyrfalcons underwent significant reductions during the 20th century before recovering more recently.
Some current threats to white falcons include:
- Habitat disturbance
- Illegal capture for falconry
- Accumulation of pesticides and pollutants
Conservation efforts are focused on protecting key breeding sites in Arctic regions and preserving sufficient habitat and prey species. Given appropriate habitat, the rare white color morphs will likely persist in falcon populations, though never becoming common.
Population Status
Species | Population Trend |
---|---|
Gyrfalcon | Stable |
Peregrine Falcon | Increasing |
Saker Falcon | Decreasing |
Conclusion
While not common, white falcons provide a fascinating look at unusual color variants that can emerge in nature. The unique white morphs of the gyrfalcon, peregrine, saker and other falcons likely persisted as they provided camouflage in Arctic regions. Yet even today, these striking birds capture the human imagination. With prudent conservation measures, the white falcon will continue gracing the skies over tundra and mountains for generations to come.