
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Falco cherrug
A large falcon, second in size only to the gyrfalcon, flown in Middle Eastern falconry for thousands of years. The IUCN assesses it as Endangered and it is listed on CITES Appendix II.
The saker falcon (Falco cherrug) is a large hierofalcon breeding from central Europe east across the Palearctic to Manchuria. It resembles a larger, browner gyrfalcon and is more heavily built than the lanner. It is a partial migrant: in Europe some juveniles migrate while most adults stay, and European and West Asian migrants winter in the Sahel. Stooping on prey it approaches 300 km/h. The English name comes from the Arabic saqr, falcon, and the bird has been flown in Arabian falconry since ancient times, serving as the national bird of the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Yemen, as well as of Hungary - whose mythological Turul is thought to be a saker - and of Mongolia. Altai falcons, once treated as the separate Falco altaicus, are now regarded as a colour morph of this species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Saker Falcon lives 15-20 years.
The Saker Falcon grows to 45-57cm (wingspan 97-126cm; males 730-990g, females 970-1,300g).
It is larger than the lanner falcon and almost as large as the gyrfalcon, at 45-57 cm long with a wingspan of 97-126 cm; males weigh 730-990 g and females 970-1,300 g.
Origin
From central Europe east across the Palearctic to Manchuria; part of the population migrates and winters in the Sahel
Lifespan
15-20 years
Size
Sources: Wikipedia - Saker falcon / Wikipedia - Saker falcon, Japanese edition
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Falco cherrug J. E. Gray, 1834
Synonyms: Falco altaicus
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Falco cherrug. Covered by the order-level listing of Falconiformes in CITES Appendix II, so international trade requires an export permit. The IUCN assesses it as Endangered. It is not among Japan's designated dangerous animals.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Appendix II) / IUCN Red List / Cabinet Order under the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals, appended table (designated dangerous animals)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
45-57cm (wingspan 97-126cm; males 730-990g, females 970-1,300g)
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Frozen raptor food such as quail and day-old chicks; in the wild medium to large birds and mammals
With a wingspan over 120 cm it needs a large weather-proof, predator-proof mews or tethered housing plus daily free flight, with enough space and suitable perch surfaces to spare the feathers.
A solitary hunter with no group sociability. Swift and powerful, it is effective against medium to large quarry, but handling it demands real experience and daily weight management.
In the breeding season or when excited it gives a harsh repeated call. It is not a persistent caller, but the volume befits its size.
The IUCN assesses the species as Endangered. It is listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit; choose captive-bred birds and confirm provenance.
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The average lifespan of Saker Falcon is 15-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Saker Falcon typically reaches 45-57cm (wingspan 97-126cm; males 730-990g, females 970-1,300g) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Saker Falcon feeds on: Frozen raptor food such as quail and day-old chicks; in the wild medium to large birds and mammals. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Saker Falcon varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 28, 2026