Ecologist Dr. Tim Henderson made a significant discovery by capturing a Siberian peregrine falcon at Newhaven Wildlife Reserve in central Australia—a first for the area. This sighting followed exceptional rainfall in 2024, which flooded wetlands and attracted various prey, in turn drawing predators like peregrine falcons. Typically found in the arctic tundra and coastal regions, the falcon’s appearance inland offers important insights into climate change and wildlife behavior.
Dr. Henderson noted that the 637 mm of rainfall in 2024—the highest since 2001—created favorable conditions for birdwatching by increasing the diversity of raptors, including the Siberian peregrine falcon, which usually migrates south to Asia and Indonesia after summer.
He captured this rare sight both visually and photographically, expressing the challenge of photographing one of the world’s fastest animals as it can dive at over 200 mph. Identification was confirmed through distinct markings, leading to this unprecedented record in Australian birdwatching. The finding enhances understanding of the species’ migratory patterns and highlights climate change’s impact on wildlife.
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