Saker Falcon (Șoimul Dunărean): The Noble Hunter of the Steppe +video and views
Posted: Tue Feb 17, 2026 1:10 pm
The Saker Falcon is one of the most powerful and majestic birds of prey in the world. In Romania, it is a critically endangered species, representing a true natural treasure of the Dobrogea and Banat regions. Known for its incredible speed and intelligence, this falcon has been a favorite of falconers for centuries, often referred to as the "king of the steppe."
A Master of the Skies
The Saker Falcon is built for pursuit. Unlike other raptors that soar high, the Saker often flies low and fast, using the terrain to surprise its prey.
The Legend of the Brave Messenger
In old Romanian ballads, the Saker Falcon is often portrayed as the "brother" of the haiduks (outlaws). Legend says that the falcon was once a brave young warrior who asked the gods to turn him into a bird so he could watch over his lands from above.
It is said that the Saker Falcon is the only bird that doesn't blink when looking at the sun, and because of this, it was believed to carry the souls of fallen heroes to the light. The elders in Dobrogea used to say that if a falcon circles your house three times, it is a sign of protection and great news coming from afar. In the eyes of the people, the Saker was never a simple predator, but a "soul with wings" that chose to stay in the Romanian lands to guard the plains.
The Symbol of Nobility
In medieval times, the Saker Falcon was a status symbol. It was so highly prized that it was often used as a diplomatic gift between kings and emperors. Today, seeing one in the wild in Romania is a rare privilege, as conservationists work hard to protect the few remaining breeding pairs.
A video with volunteers caring Saker Falcon (Șoimul Dunărean) nest:
FAQ: Saker Falcon (Șoimul Dunărean)
A Master of the Skies
The Saker Falcon is built for pursuit. Unlike other raptors that soar high, the Saker often flies low and fast, using the terrain to surprise its prey.
- Wingspan: It can reach a wingspan of up to 120 cm, making it a formidable presence in the air.
- Habitat: In Romania, it prefers the open plains and rocky cliffs of Dobrogea, where it can find the ground squirrels (popândăi) that make up its primary diet.
- Nesting: Interestingly, the Saker Falcon does not build its own nest; it often takes over abandoned nests of crows or other birds of prey located on high cliffs or electricity pylons.
Majestic Saker Falcon perched on a rock at sunset in Măcin Mountains, Romania.
In old Romanian ballads, the Saker Falcon is often portrayed as the "brother" of the haiduks (outlaws). Legend says that the falcon was once a brave young warrior who asked the gods to turn him into a bird so he could watch over his lands from above.
It is said that the Saker Falcon is the only bird that doesn't blink when looking at the sun, and because of this, it was believed to carry the souls of fallen heroes to the light. The elders in Dobrogea used to say that if a falcon circles your house three times, it is a sign of protection and great news coming from afar. In the eyes of the people, the Saker was never a simple predator, but a "soul with wings" that chose to stay in the Romanian lands to guard the plains.
The Symbol of Nobility
In medieval times, the Saker Falcon was a status symbol. It was so highly prized that it was often used as a diplomatic gift between kings and emperors. Today, seeing one in the wild in Romania is a rare privilege, as conservationists work hard to protect the few remaining breeding pairs.
A video with volunteers caring Saker Falcon (Șoimul Dunărean) nest:
FAQ: Saker Falcon (Șoimul Dunărean)
- Where can I see a Saker Falcon in Romania?
The best chances are in the Măcin Mountains (see more) or the steppes of Dobrogea. However, they are very rare and easily spooked, so professional binoculars and a lot of patience are required. - Is the Saker Falcon protected by law?
Yes, it is strictly protected. Disturbing their nesting sites or harming the birds carries heavy legal penalties, as they are part of a national conservation program. - How fast can a Saker Falcon fly?
While not as fast as the Peregrine Falcon in a vertical dive, the Saker is exceptionally fast in horizontal flight, reaching speeds that allow it to catch agile prey mid-air. - Why is it called "Dunărean" (of the Danube) in Romanian?
The name reflects its historical presence along the Danube terrace and the floodplains where it used to hunt extensively.