Aplomado Falcon Falco femoralis

This long-winged, long-tailed falcon is widespread through Central and South America. Once common in dry grasslands of the U.S., this species is now being reintroduced into areas of south Texas. Adults are gray above with black-and-white face pattern, white breast, black band across mid-belly, and orange lower belly. Long, dark tail has thin white bands. Immatures similar to adults but have streaked breast and paler lower belly. Combination of plumage details and shape is distinctive. Hunts for flying insects and birds. Usually seen singly or in pairs.