Peregrine Falcon
NamePeregrine Falcon
Common NamePeregrine Falcon
Scientific NameFalco peregrinus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-grey back and wings, with a white to buff underside that is finely barred with dark brown or black. A distinctive feature is the dark 'helmet' or 'mustache' mark on its face, contrasting with white cheeks and throat. Juveniles are browner above and streaked rather than barred below.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of harsh, rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kraa-kraa-kraa' calls, especially when agitated, defending territory, or near the nest. They can also produce softer 'wichew' calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscliffs, coastlines, mountains, tundra, deserts, forests, urban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Peregrine Falcon has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, breeding on all continents except Antarctica. It is found across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, often migrating long distances.
Identifying Featuresdark 'helmet' and 'mustache' marks on face, slate-grey back and barred underparts, long, pointed wings in flight, extremely fast flight and hunting stoop, yellow cere and feet
Description
The Peregrine Falcon is a powerful, crow-sized raptor renowned for its incredible speed, especially during its hunting dive or 'stoop'. It is a skilled aerial hunter, primarily preying on other birds caught in mid-flight.
