T H E I C E L A X D 
FALC O X. 
Falco islandicvs. 
Plate XXXV. 
As the present drawing represents a perfectly adult Iceland Falcon, which, like the Greenland bird figured in 
the preceding plate, moulted for several successive seasons in the Society’s Gardens, without any change of 
character in its plumage, it will be seen that the two species, as has been already stated, are as distinct and 
well-marked as possible. The principal point to be noticed is this, that although there is considerable variation 
amongst the individuals of each of the two forms, it will be invariably found, on examination, that in the 
Greenland Falcon the white is, as it were, the ground colour upon which the dark markings are displayed, 
whereas, in the Iceland Falcon, the ground is dark, with light markings upon it. In other words, the 
prevailing hue in the Greenlander in all stages is white, whereas, in the Icelander it is dark, being brown or 
slaty-grey, according to the age of the specimen. 
The Iceland Falcon, though stray examples in immature dress have occasionally occurred in Great Britain, 
is principally found in that island so full of natural wonders whence its ordinary appellation is derived. It is 
said to be by no means uncommon here, and is also found, not unfrequently, in the southern part of Greenland. 
In the golden days of the Danish Monarchy the Royal Falconers sailed once every year to Iceland to 
receive the tribute of these noble Falcons, which had been taken from their nests for that purpose. The high 
value set upon such of these as survived the perils of the voyage, and the severities consequent on the 
discipline practised on them whilst in training, is a matter of history. 
