Peregrine Falcon
Falco peregrinus
- Where
- Global, found on every continent except Antarctica
- Habitat
- Mountain cliffs, coastal cities, and open skies over oceans and rivers
- Diet
- Primarily birds (pigeons, doves, songbirds), also bats, insects, small mammals
- Size
- 15-20 inches long, with a 3-foot wingspan
- Lifespan
- Up to 15 years in the wild, often living longer in protected areas
- Conservation
- Protected under international law; populations recovering from DDT poisoning that caused population declines
Fun Facts
- Reaches speeds of over 242 mph during hunting dives (called stoops)
- Can dive from heights of up to 1 mile before hitting prey
- Young peregrines are called eyasses
Learn More
Distinctive blue-gray back with black bars, white underside, and dark wings
Strong, hooked beak for tearing flesh
Specialized feathers on feet help catch prey in mid-air