With a form that appears too delicate to survive in the Arctic, the gyrfalcon is nonetheless a formidable hunter, snatching at waterbirds and ptarmigan in mid-flight, as well as swooping low to grab fish and small mammals such as Arctic ground squirrels and Arctic hares with its needle-sharp talons. The birds are able to tackle prey as large as a goose.
The largest falcon species in any of the Earth’s regions, males can reach lengths of 24 inches, with wingspans of around 50 inches, and weighing in at a little under 3 lbs. The plumage of the gyrfalcon can differ substantially among individuals, with some almost completely white of feather and others having a plain brown-black appearance. These ‘colorways’ are officially known as ‘morphs.’
Mostly associated with areas of tundra (treeless Arctic regions) and mountains, recent scientific studies have found gyrfalcons spending a significant amount of time in the winter months on ice floes some distance from land, where they probably feed on seabirds.
At other times of the year, gyrfalcons can be found closer to land as they nest on sea cliffs, generally reusing the abandoned nests of golden eagles (the gyrfalcons only active predator), and ravens, rather than creating their own structures from scratch. They are also known to brood their eggs on bare ledges, with broods not normally containing more than four eggs. The birds will protect their chicks from potential attack, and have previously been spotted dive bombing brown bears – so it’s well worth keeping your distance.
When it comes to observing gyrfalcons in the wild, they are relatively easy to spot in Canada’s Northwest Territories, where it is the official bird, and parts of Iceland, where it appears on the nation’s coat of arms. Populations of gyrfalcon also exist in Greenland.
Recommended Artic Cruises
Other Arctic Wildlife
Arctic Fox / Arctic Hare / Arctic Wolf / Caribou / Musk Ox / Polar Bear / Bearded Seal / Beluga Whale / Narwhal / Ringed Seal / Walrus / Arctic Tern / Puffin / Snowy Owl
