| Abstract: | The systematics of the Altay falcon (Falco altaicus/lorenzi) remains enigmatic. First reported in 1811, it has been treated as a gyrfalcon (F. rusticolus), a saker (F. cherrug), and two separate species (F. lorenzi and F. altaicus). Of 53 ‘altaicus‘ specimens examined, at least two are misidentified gyrfalcons, many are typical sakers, but 34 (the core group) are considered to be the true Altay falcon type. Adults have red, brown, and gray color morphs. The red (backed) morph closely resembles some eastern sakers; the chocolate and gray morphs resemble respective gyrfalcon morphs. While the true affinities of the Altay falcon will be resolved by molecular genetics, the ecological, geographical, and morphological information suggest that the core group represents a gyrfalcon-saker cross that is being swamped through back crosses with the saker. The breeding range of the core group (i.e., the Altay and Sayan Mountains) is much smaller than previously reported. |
| Genre: | Article |
| ProdID: | 5222620 |
| Citation Author: | Ellis, D.H. |
| Citation Contributing Office: | Patuxent Wildlife Research Center |
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| Citation End Page: | 25 |
| Citation Issue: | 1 |
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| Citation Language: | English |
| Citation Larger Work Title: | Journal of Raptor Research |
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| Citation Number Of Pages: | 11 |
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| Citation Phsyical Description: | 15-25 |
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| Citation Search Results Text: | What is Falco Altaicus Menzbier?; 1995; Article; Journal; Journal of Raptor Research; Ellis, D.H. |
| Citation Start Page: | 15 |
| Citation Volume: | 29 |
| Citation Year: | 1995 |
| Type: | citation/reference |
| Text: | What is Falco Altaicus Menzbier?; 1995; Article; Journal; Journal of Raptor Research; Ellis, D.H. |
| URL (THUMBNAIL): | http://pubs.er.usgs.gov/thumbnails/outside_thumb.jpg |
| URL (DOCUMENT): | http://elibrary.unm.edu/sora/jrr/v029n01/p00015-p00025.pdf |
| Date Other: | Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:17 -0500 |
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