The peregrine is our biggest falcon; dark slate-grey above and white below with black bars. It has a white throat and cheeks and a strong, black moustache and mask. They suffered from persecution and pesticide poisoning in the early 20th century and populations have only recently recovered. Over the last couple of decades peregrine falcons have been doing very well and in recent years they have found some unusual nest sites: tall city structures which replicate the precipitous cliff edges that they would naturally nest on.

Behaviour

The peregrine falcon feeds primarily on smaller birds such as pigeons or collared doves. They have also been known to hunt small mammals, amphibians and large insects. Peregrine falcons hunt in flight and usually catch their prey mid-air.

Size

• Length: 40-54cm
• Wingspan: 1m
• Weight: 670-1,100g
• Average Lifespan: 6 years

Status

Common. Listed under CITES Appendix II.

Distribution

Widespread

When to see

January – December

Facts

• Peregrines are amongst the fastest animals on the planet, reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when ‘stooping’: diving down on its prey from a great height.