Falcons (Family Falconidae)

The falcons and caracaras are around 60 species of diurnal birds of
prey that comprise the Family Falconidae. The family is divided into
two subfamiles, Polyborinae, which includes the caracaras and forest
falcons, and Falconinae, the falcons, kestrels and falconets.

Falcons and caracaras are small to medium sized birds of prey, ranging
in size from the black-thighed falconet, which can weight as little as 35
grams (1.2 oz), to the gyrfalcon, which can weigh as much as 1,735 grams
(61.2 oz). They have strongly hooked bills, sharply curved talons and
excellent eyesight. The plumage is usually composed of browns, whites,
chestnut, black and grey, often with barring of patterning. There is little
difference in the plumage of males and females.

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