Peregrine Falcon
NamePeregrine Falcon
Common NamePeregrine Falcon
Scientific NameFalco peregrinus
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-grey back and wings, with a dark, almost black 'helmet' and prominent malar (moustache) stripes. Their underparts are white to buffy, finely barred with dark brown or black. Juveniles are browner above and streaked rather than barred below.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, rapid 'kek-kek-kek' or 'kra-kra-kra' series, often given when agitated, defending territory, or by young birds begging for food.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscliffs, mountains, coasts, wetlands, urban areas, open country
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Peregrine Falcon has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, found on every continent except Antarctica. It inhabits a wide range of environments from arctic tundras to tropical regions, often near coastlines, mountains, or large bodies of water.
Identifying FeaturesDark 'helmet' and prominent malar stripe, Pointed, swept-back wings in flight, Slate-grey back and barred underparts, Yellow cere and feet, Extremely fast, powerful flight and hunting stoop
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 highly skilled aerial predator, primarily preying on other birds caught in flight.
