1. Increase in the Population of Small Birds: Falcons primarily feed on smaller birds such as sparrows, pigeons, and doves. With falcons gone, these smaller bird populations would likely experience a significant increase.
2. Impact on Vegetation: Smaller birds feed on insects, fruits, and seeds. As their numbers increase due to the absence of falcons, they can consume more plant material, leading to potential changes in vegetation structure and composition.
3. Increase in Insect Population: Since smaller birds also feed on insects, their increased population could result in a decrease in the insect population. This could have cascading effects on plants and other animals that rely on insects as food.
4. Disruption of Seed Dispersal: Some birds play a crucial role in seed dispersal, contributing to the reproduction and distribution of plants. With the loss of falcons, the seed dispersal patterns may be altered, affecting plant diversity and ecosystem health.
5. Impact on Other Predators: Falcons may compete with other predators like hawks and owls for resources. Their extinction could create more opportunities for these predators, leading to changes in their populations and interactions within the ecosystem.
It's important to note that the specific effects of falcon extinction on the food web will depend on the ecological context, including the environment, diversity of species, and the specific role falcons play in the ecosystem. The absence of falcons can cause imbalances and disruptions that ripple through different trophic levels, potentially leading to long-term changes in community structure and dynamics.