Young Lanner Falcons: Explorations and First Flights Toward Independence

Each year, our Lanner falcons amaze us with the distance and speed at which they traverse their territory. To increase the chances of successful independence, we continuously monitor their movements, intervening when necessary to give them the opportunity to learn how to fend for themselves. The path to autonomy is long: in natural conditions, parental care lasts for months before the adults allow their offspring to become strong and independent. Our approach aims to replicate this process, supporting young falcons during their first exploratory flights.

The Case of Duna

Duna, one of the first females born in 2025, was the first to undertake the typical exploratory flights that lead young falcons away from the hacking area. About 30 days after her initial flights, she crossed the Apennines in just a few hours, reaching the Maiella National Park. The following day, she continued toward San Severo—a traditional stop for many individuals in previous years—then explored areas near the Gargano National Park.

After three days of travel, Duna reached the Alta Murgia Regional Park. On the fifth day, she flew along coastal zones, passing the Pollino National Park and arriving in Maratea, then Cosenza and Catanzaro. At this point, the frequency and range of her movements began to decrease, although she continued along the Ionian coast to Isola di Capo Rizzuto, Rocca di Neto, and Cirò, frequenting the surrounding agricultural areas.

On the seventh day, Duna was reached by operators who had been monitoring her via GPS tracking. She continued until she reached the foothills of the Pollino National Park, stopping in Francavilla Marittima (CS), exhausted due to her inexperience. A health check revealed weight loss and signs of recent fasting. After a few days of supervision and a carefully managed diet, Duna was released again and resumed flying around the hacking area alongside her siblings, who were still present at the release site.

The future remains open: where will Duna go next, and what paths will her siblings follow? Ongoing monitoring will allow us to track and document their progress toward full independence.