Falco peregrinus Tunstall, 1771

Callaghan, Corey T., Kekeubata, Esau, Waneagea, Jackson, Alabai, Maasafi, Esau, Tommy, MacLaren, David & Major, Richard E., 2019, A collaborative bird survey of East Kwaio, Malaita, Solomon Islands, Check List 15 (6), pp. 1119-1136 : 1130-1131

Falco peregrinus Tunstall, 1771 . Peregrine Falcon

Observed once when a pair was seen hunting bats as they exited a cave at dusk near 08°55.25’S, 161°6.51’E. These are the first observations for Malaita. Identifi- cation: The large, robust, bulky size was noticeable from a distance, and broad wings were evident. As we approached closer, an individual flew directly over the boat giving great views, which showed a relatively dark (given the poor light conditions) falcon, but with a noticeable white throat and black bars under the body, typical with ernesti subspecies. The habitat was open ocean/cliffs (typical of Peregrine Falcons in the Solo- mon Islands region) compared with open gardens (typical of Oriental Hobby). The size, behavior, habitat, and

contrasting throat and bars under the body helped to eliminate Oriental Hobby.

PSITTACIFORMES