Falklands birds of prey land at Banham Zoo
One of the rare striated caracara birds of prey, nicknamed the ‘Johnny rook’ on the Falklands, that are the latest additions at Banham Zoo. Picture: Liam Austin - Credit: Liam Austin
Birds of prey that are native to the Falkland Islands are the newest species to go on show at Banham Zoo.
The pair of rare striated caracara are getting used to their new surroundings in the South Norfolk zoo's recently renovated aviary.
The birds, which are nicknamed the 'Johnny rook' on the Falklands, are well known for their inquisitive nature.
They were once considered common in the Falklands archipelago, but it is estimated there are now just 400 breeding pairs in the outlying islands where they nest in cliffs around penguin and albatross colonies.
The brown birds with dark eyes, gold faces and silver-streaked necks, also breed in smaller numbers on several islands in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina and Chile.
The zoo, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, is housing the birds in the revamped aviary near to the admissions building which features different elements as well as the various pieces of enrichment put in by the keepers to keep the birds stimulated.
