The American lanner, a type of falcon, is spelled phonetically as əˈmɛrəkən ˈlænər. The first syllable, "amer," is pronounced with the schwa sound, as in "away" or "about." The second syllable, "ican," is pronounced with a short "i" sound, as in "hit" or "bit." The final syllable, "lanner," is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, and a short "a" sound as in "cat" or "hat." With its impressive hunting abilities and speedy flight, the American lanner is a fascinating bird to study.
The American lanner, scientifically known as Falco biarmicus, is a medium-sized bird of prey belonging to the falcon family, Falconidae. This species is also referred to as the Lanner falcon or simply Lanner. Originating from North Africa and Eurasia, the American lanner has been introduced to various countries worldwide, including the United States.
The American lanner possesses numerous distinguishing features, such as a robust body, narrow wings, and a relatively long tail. It measures approximately 40 to 50 centimeters in length and has a wingspan of about 105 to 130 centimeters. With plumage typically varying between gray and pale brown, this falcon exhibits bold dark streaks and patches on its chest. Its face usually displays a characteristic dark "moustache" or "whisker" marking, adding to its distinctive appearance.
Frequently inhabiting open grasslands, savannas, and mountainous regions, the American lanner is adept at soaring and hovering in search of prey. Small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects constitute the primary diet of this bird. Using its sharp talons and powerful beak, it hunts by diving rapidly from the sky, often executing spectacular aerial acrobatics to capture its quarry.
Due to its adaptability and versatility, the American lanner has attracted the attention of falconers as a prime choice for hunting. Additionally, its aesthetically striking appearance and impressive flight abilities make it a sought-after species for avian enthusiasts. Despite adaptation to various habitats, the American lanner faces some conservation concerns, particularly in its original native range, necessitating protective measures to ensure the survival of this splendid bird of prey.
The term American lanner does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words, American and lanner. American refers to something or someone from the Americas, while lanner is a type of falcon. The word lanner itself traces back to Old French laner, which means a type of bird of prey.