[1] Pygmy falcons show physiological traits that have adaptive value in a region affected by environmental variability associated with the El Niño–Southern Oscillation cycle as well varying food source.

They regulate their body temperature by thermal buffering provided by sociable weaver colonies and communal roosting by the falcons.

[6] However, some potential prey animals attempt to outsmart the cunning falcons; Kalahari tree skinks have apparently been observed ‘eavesdropping’ on nearby sociable weaver birds, who will loudly warn of any approaching danger, enabling the skinks to run for cover.

Despite being bird-eaters and bigger than sociable weavers, the pygmy falcons largely leave the latter alone, though they do occasionally catch and eat nestlings and even adults.

It has been suggested that this conspicuous faecal mat (white when fresh and turning pinkish with age) present at the entrance of the chamber could deter snakes and reduce the number of ectoparasites.

[11] Pygmy falcon territories are occasionally inhabited by groups, where there are more than two adults living together and tending nestlings.

[12] There are four potential reasons for this behaviour: defence, co-operative polyandry, delayed dispersal of offspring and cooperation, and thermoregulation (warmth).