PEREGRINE FALCON
Falco peregrinus

Peregrine Falcons are very beautiful birds. Peregrines measure up to 20 inches from head to tail and have a large wingspan of around 3 feet. They are birds of prey, meaning they hunt and kill other birds for food. Some of the birds they like to snack on are pigeons, waterfowl, doves, jays, and starlings. Peregrines live throughout the world (except Antarctica) and are very adaptive. They can be found flying through rural wilderness or nesting on top of a city skyscraper.

Peregrine Falcons were almost wiped out by a pesticide called DDT. This pesticide weakened the Peregrine egg shells and caused them to crack, killing the young birds inside. However, the use of this pesticide has been banned and through breeding and release programs the Peregrine has been restored. This is why it is very important to take care of our environment and the animals that share it with us. Aren't you glad we still have these wonderful birds?

Here are some cool facts about Peregrine Falcons:

Good news - Peregrines were recently taken off the endangered species list. Their numbers have jumped to around 1,600 breeding pairs from a shocking low of only 19 breeding pairs in the 1970s.
Some Airports use Peregrines to keep runways clear of other birds. They let the Peregrines scare birds off the runway.
The Peregrine's scientific name, falco peregrinus, means "wandering falcon"
The Peregrine Falcon is the fastest bird on Earth.

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PEREGRINE FALCON Falco peregrinus

PEREGRINE FALCON
Falco peregrinus