Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
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Falco peregrinus
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Mass
~760 g
Habitat
Grasslands and meadows
Diet
Small vertebrates
How to recognize it
The Peregrine Falcon looks compact and built for speed, with a deep chest and long, pointed wings. Adults usually feel strongly contrasting, with a dark head and pale underside, while young ones look browner and less sharp in tone.
Outside the breeding season it is usually quiet, but near the nest it gives a harsh, abrupt call. On the hunt it wastes little motion, often waiting from a perch before dropping into a fast, steep stoop.
It favors open places with a clear view, especially cliffs, river valleys, coastal edges, tall buildings, and bridges. It feeds mostly on medium-sized prey, and in cities pigeons make up a large part of the diet; in many places it stays year-round, while northern populations move south for winter.
Quick Facts
Listen to the call
The Peregrine Falcon looks compact and built for speed, with a deep chest and long, pointed wings. Adults usually feel strongly contrasting, with a dark head and pale underside, while young ones look browner and less sharp in tone.
Outside the breeding season it is usually quiet, but near the nest it gives a harsh, abrupt call. On the hunt it wastes little motion, often waiting from a perch before dropping into a fast, steep stoop.
It favors open places with a clear view, especially cliffs, river valleys, coastal edges, tall buildings, and bridges. It feeds mostly on medium-sized prey, and in cities pigeons make up a large part of the diet; in many places it stays year-round, while northern populations move south for winter.
How to recognize it
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Falco peregrinus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Peregrine falcon Encyclopedia article