Peregrine Falcon on a perch

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

The fastest bird in the world, capable of speeds over 240 mph.

Size

34-58 cm

Wingspan

80-120 cm

Weight

330-1500 g

Lifespan

15-20 years in the wild

Conservation

Least Concern

Identification

Blue-gray above, white to cream below with black barring. Distinctive black head with a black mustache stripe.

Habitat

Found in a wide variety of habitats, from urban areas to coastal cliffs.

Diet

Primarily other birds, caught in spectacular aerial pursuits.

Behavior

Famous for its hunting stoop, where it dives on prey from great heights.

Distribution

Found on every continent except Antarctica.

Description

The Peregrine Falcon is renowned for its incredible speed, making it the fastest member of the animal kingdom. It has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution.