Large and powerful falcon; slightly smaller and more slender than Saker Falcon. Adults have a gray back and pale orangish hindcrown and nape. Juveniles are dark brown above and well-streaked below, and can be easily confused with Saker and Peregrine Falcons; note unstreaked “trousers” and very heavy streaking on the underwings and underparts. Inhabits a wide range of habitats, from forested hills to arid canyons and open grasslands. Call is a typical falcon scream.