PEREGRINE FALCON
(Falco
peregrinus)
The Peregrine Falcon is the most recognised symbol of
falconry. Not only is it one of the fastest creatures on
Earth, it is one of the most widespread birds in the world.
It is also the largest breeding falcon in Britain. The
Peregrine has an amazing flight action when hunting. It
gains height over its target and prepares to stoop by
closing its wings. It plummets towards its prey at speeds
of up to 150mph, on impact striking out its hind talons.
The Peregrine is so skillful that it can pull out of a
stoop just milliseconds before contact and manages to
breathe when traveling so fast, because it has nostril pegs
that slow down wind intake and prevent the lungs from
bursting!
FACT
FILE:
WEIGHT:
1 lb 8 oz - 3 lbs
WINGSPAN:
3 ft - 3.5 ft
DISTRIBUTION:
Most widespread member of the falco family in the world.
Only absent from the high Arctic and Antarctic.
HABITAT:
Rocky cliffs, crags, coastal areas and rugged hills. Grouse
moors especially suitable.
HUNTING
TECHNIQUE:
Climbs to great height, soars and hovers on upcurrents and
chases prey in mid-air. Performs spectacular stoop on prey.
PREY:
Specialist bird feeders including pigeon, grouse, starling,
raptors, geese and even heron! Sea-bird colonies and crows
are a favourite.
CONSERVATION
STATUS:
Heavily persecuted through the centuries, hit particularly
hard by chemical poisoning, the British population is
slowly expanding and is one of the most important in
Europe. Approximately 1,000 pairs.