A falcon with an identity issue?

Because data analysis is still boring; I thought I would add this funny little saga that has been going on at a local Golden Eagle nest site. The pair of Golden Eagles have decided to not nest this year; which is normal, Golden Eagles do not nest every year. However, a pair of Prairie Falcons have decided to nest on the same bluff. In the beginning, when the eagles were still around the falcons spent most their time on the opposite side of the bluff; however, since the eagles moved out the falcons moved in! They are spending a tremendous amount of time in and around the eagle nests. This is a photo of the 'likely male' Prairie Falcon in the upper nest. In this particular Golden Eagle territory, there are three nests. Golden Eagles can have 1 to 19 nests within one territory and the average, in Arizona, being around three.

Prairie Falcons are fantastic raptors and these guys do not disappoint. They are a blast to watch! Very dynamic and gregarious. On this day, I observed the pair together and the 'likely female' had a very big crop so, that means she just had a great meal.

 

Sometimes you feel like a Prairie Falcon, sometimes you don't!