How To Get Falcons To Visit Your Yard

Imagine witnessing a feathered ballet in your own backyard! Attracting falcons — those magnificent birds of prey — can be a truly rewarding experience. Their breathtaking speed and agility are a marvel to observe as they hunt, and their presence elevates your backyard into a wildlife sanctuary. Transform your yard into a falcon haven with these 15 tips to improve your chances of observing these incredible birds up close and appreciating their fascinating habits.

Provide a Food Source

Falcons, being carnivores, are naturally attracted to live or thawed frozen prey items such as mice, quails, or chicks. If you want to attract falcons, you can set up feeding stations with appropriate prey items, but make sure they are secured and do not attract any unwanted predatory threats.

Install Perches

Falcons prefer high perches for hunting and scanning for prey. Install tall, sturdy options like poles or dead trees. They should be placed in open spots with a clear view of the surroundings.

Offer Water

While falcons don’t need water frequently, they might find a birdbath or water dish appealing, particularly during hot weather. To avoid contamination, keep the water clean and fresh, and make a point of changing it out regularly.

Avoid Pesticides

Insecticides may deter falcons as they can be poisoned when they eat prey that consumed insecticide, so use natural pest control methods so you won’t harm them through their food sources.

Make Nesting Sites Available

Knowing these birds nest on cliffs or tall structures, you can provide nesting boxes or platforms high off the ground. These should be placed in quiet, undisturbed areas with a good view of the surroundings.

Open Spaces

Their preference for open areas is so they can hunt. Hence, dense vegetation near perches or feeding spots should be avoided. Maintain a clear line of sight for the falcons to spot prey far away.

Avoid Disturbance

Falcons are sensitive to disturbance, so minimize noise and human activity near their potential nesting sites. Avoid sudden, unexpected movements or loud noises that could scare them away.

Use Decoys

Decoys of falcons or other birds of prey can sometimes seduce falcons to your yard. Place these decoys in visible locations where they can be seen from a distance.

Offer Shelter

Provide trees or other structures that can shelter them from the elements so falcons can find refuge. While dense vegetation can offer shelter, structures that can allow them to see around them are better.

Be Patient

Attracting falcons can take time. Be consistent in providing food, water, and suitable habitat and exercise patience. It may take some time for falcons to discover and become comfortable with your yard.

Reduce Bright Lights Use

Falcons are diurnal and may be deterred by bright lights at night. Minimize outdoor lighting or use motion-activated lights to reduce disturbance to the falcons.

Be Aware of Laws

The law protects some falcon species. Be sure to research and follow regulations regarding attracting and interacting with them. Consult local wildlife authorities if you are unsure.

Limit Predators

Falcons are vulnerable to larger predators. Minimize the presence of domestic pets or other animals that may harm them. Secure garbage cans and eliminate sources of food capable of attracting predators.

Keep a Clean Yard

Take debris and clutter out of your yard to make it more appealing to falcons. This includes keeping the area around feeding stations and resting places clean and tidy.

Consult Experts

Consider consulting with local wildlife experts or organizations for specific advice tailored to your area. They can give you the best insights and guidance on attracting and supporting falcons in your yard.