Plate 166 – Rough-legged Falcon

On the few occasions John James Audubon had the chance to observe the Rough-legged falcon, he marveled at the bird having vision so strong that the bird could hunt well into dusk. Such ability would be crucial during the short winter days in the northern parts of the continent where the bird tends to maintain its range. Audubon also marveled at the animosity towards the bird. “The number of meadow mice which this species destroys ought, one might think, to ensure it the protection of every husbandman; but so far is this from being the case, that in America it is shot on all occasions, simply because its presence frightens Mallards and other Ducks, which would alight on the ponds, along the shores of which the wily gunner is concealed.” The Rough-legged Falcon is known today as the Rough-legged hawk.