Bird Profiles - Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Status in UK
Breeding resident numbers around 1000 pairs recovering after long period of decline.
Brief Description
This is largest of our UK breeding Falcons with a length of around 45cm. The wing span is also impressive for the size at around 1 metre.
Habitat
Open country, including farmland moorland wetlands and coastal, also found in high mountain areas.
Diet
Mostly Birds from Starling size up to large duck size. Spectacular hunting method of stooping at high speeds from a sometimes a great height.
Nest
on ledges on cliffs and inland quarries. Will nest in Crow sized nest in tree.
Many of our Local Groups take part and organise local Peregrine surveys and wardening of nest sites as this Falcon is still persecuted for its eggs and young. adults have also been known to be killed near to their nest sites.
Breeding resident numbers around 1000 pairs recovering after long period of decline.
Brief Description
This is largest of our UK breeding Falcons with a length of around 45cm. The wing span is also impressive for the size at around 1 metre.
Habitat
Open country, including farmland moorland wetlands and coastal, also found in high mountain areas.
Diet
Mostly Birds from Starling size up to large duck size. Spectacular hunting method of stooping at high speeds from a sometimes a great height.
Nest
on ledges on cliffs and inland quarries. Will nest in Crow sized nest in tree.
Many of our Local Groups take part and organise local Peregrine surveys and wardening of nest sites as this Falcon is still persecuted for its eggs and young. adults have also been known to be killed near to their nest sites.
Written by Chris Sperring MBE - not to be re-produced without the permission of The Hawk and Owl Trust
