======Falcons======
=====Object Information=====
  * **Type:** [[Creature]] ([[Bird]] of Prey)
  * **Owners:** The [[Falmouth Falcons]] [[Quidditch]] team uses the falcon as its emblem and namesake. In some non-canon material, [[Draco Malfoy]] owns a falcon.
  * **Maker:** N/A (Natural [[Creature]])
=====Description and Appearance=====
Falcons are non-magical birds of prey known for their incredible speed and hunting ability. In the [[Wizarding World]], they are physically identical to their Muggle counterparts. No magical variants have been documented.
The most prominent depiction of a falcon is on the emblem of the [[Falmouth Falcons]] [[Quidditch]] team, which features a falcon-head crest on their dark-grey and white robes.
=====Magical Properties and Usage=====
Falcons are not known to possess any inherent magical properties. They are primarily used by wizards in a symbolic capacity. Their association with speed, aggression, and nobility makes them a fitting mascot for a professional [[Quidditch]] team like the [[Falmouth Falcons]].
While [[Owls]] are the predominant couriers in the [[Wizarding World]], other birds can be used to carry messages. It is plausible that trained falcons could serve this purpose, a role they are shown to fill in certain video games.
=====History=====
The most significant historical context for falcons in the wizarding community is their connection to the [[Falmouth Falcons]] [[Quidditch]] team. The team was founded in 1677 and is known for a history of hard-hitting and aggressive play, a reputation that aligns with the predatory nature of their namesake. Their team motto, "Let us win, but if we cannot win, let us break a few heads," further solidifies this image.
=====Role in the Story=====
The primary mention of falcons occurs in the lead-up to the 1994 [[Quidditch World Cup]]. While discussing [[Quidditch]] with [[Harry Potter]] and [[Hermione Granger]], [[Ron Weasley]] lists the [[Falmouth Falcons]] as a well-known team and recites their aggressive motto. This mention serves as world-building, enriching the culture surrounding the sport of [[Quidditch]] and giving readers a sense of the broader wizarding society beyond the immediate events at [[Hogwarts]]. Falcons themselves do not play a direct role in the main plot of the series.
=====Behind the Scenes=====
  * In the //Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets// video game, [[Draco Malfoy]] uses a pet falcon to send and receive messages. This is a deviation from the novels, where his primary pet and post-carrier is a large [[Eagle Owl]]. (video game)
  * The choice of a falcon for the Falmouth team likely draws on the real-world medieval and noble sport of falconry, reflecting the long-standing history and competitive nature of [[Quidditch]].