Peregrine falcon

American peregrine falcon
Falco peregrinus anatum

photo of an American peregrine falcon

The peregrine falcon can dive at speeds over 200 miles per hour.
photo: Don Cohen

Characteristics: The peregrine falcon is a fast raptor that can dive at speeds over 200 miles per hour. It has sharp talons used to grab prey and a sharp, curved beak. It averages 15-21 inches long and has a wingspan of 40 inches. Peregrines are found on every continent except Antarctica.

Diet: The peregrine falcon eats a wide variety of birds including jays, pigeons, shorebirds, robins and ducks.

Reproduction: Rather than build their own nests falcons utilize tree cavities, rock cliffs, ledges of skyscrapers and high bridges to lay eggs and raise their young. Female falcons lay one clutch of 3-4 eggs each year. Females are larger and dominate the males. Male peregrines, which are called tercels, will often bow in submission to the female.

Environmental Connections: Peregrines are an endangered species success story. Elimination of DDT in the United States, reintroduction and nest-box programs in urban areas have contributed to their return.

DDT is a broad-spectrum pesticide that was responsible for the decline of many bird species. This chemical alters the falcons’ calcium metabolism, causing eggshells to be so thin that undeveloped birds perish. The United States has outlawed the use of DDT, however it can still be used in other nations. Peregrine falcons continue to ingest and bioaccumulate DDT through the small birds they eat.

Protecting migratory birds and raptors means preserving the habitats in which they live. No ecosystem stands alone so it is important that we work to protect ecosystems on a global level.

What You Can Do

Consider the footprint that you leave upon the earth. Take steps in your daily life to lessen your own personal impact on the earth.
Learn more about migratory birds. Consider putting up nest-boxes or feeders for migratory and resident bird species. Peregrines were able to make a comeback in part because of the nest boxes that were provided for them on the ledges of tall office buildings.
Look for shade-grown coffee in your super-market. Modern methods of growing coffee often involve the clear-cutting of tropical forests as well as excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers. Shade grown coffee can be cultivated without cutting down the forest creating less need to amend the soil with artificial chemicals. This protects habitats for migratory birds and reduces the amount of pesticide exposure.
Become an educated voter. Inquire about your representatives' positions on environmental issues. Contact government representatives and ask that they support environmentally responsible legislation.
Learn more about the products that you purchase. What sort of impact did the production, gathering, or hunting of this product have on the environment? We can often contribute to conservation simply by making wise purchases.

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Peregrine falcon

American peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatum

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American peregrine falcon
Falco peregrinus anatum