Peregrine Falcon

Renowned for the spectacular high-speed stoops with which it strikes prey in mid-air, the Peregrine Falcon feeds almost exclusively on medium-sized birds — pigeons, doves, waterfowl, and songbirds — caught on the wing. Blue-grey above and barred white below, it wears a bold black moustachial stripe against a white throat. It is among the most widespread of all birds, found on every continent except Antarctica, and occupies habitats from tundra to tropics; increasingly it nests on skyscrapers and bridges within cities. Eyries on cliffs or tall structures hold two to four eggs, incubated for 33 to 35 days, with young fledging at 35 to 42 days. Migratory populations travel vast distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Away from the nest it is mostly silent, defending breeding sites with a harsh, wailing cackle. It is listed as Least Concern.