Which animal is not typically preyed upon by falcons?

Falcons are highly skilled raptors known for their impressive hunting abilities, and their diet can vary depending on the species. While falcons do hunt a variety of prey, including insects, fish, small mammals, and other birds, certain types of prey are less common in their diets.

Small mammals, while they may be hunted by some larger species of raptors, are not the primary choice for most falcon species. Falcons are adapted for speed and agility, primarily targeting flying prey and other smaller agile animals. Their specialized hunting technique often involves catching birds in mid-air or quickly pursuing insects and fish, making these options more suitable targets due to their aerial capabilities.

In contrast, insects, fish, and other birds fit well within the falcon’s hunting strategy. For example, some falcons, like the American kestrel, will indeed take insects, and larger species like the peregrine falcon are renowned for their ability to dive and catch birds in flight. Therefore, while small mammals may occasionally form part of the diet for some raptors, they are not a typical prey choice for falcons.