Peregrine Falcon: Speed, Habitat & Aerial Hunting

Falco peregrinus, the Peregrine Falcon, is one of the world’s most widely distributed birds of prey. It occurs on every continent except Antarctica and has adapted to landscapes ranging from sea cliffs and open tundra to major cities.

Built for high-speed flight

Peregrine Falcons have a compact, aerodynamic build, long pointed wings and a relatively short tail. Their most famous hunting behaviour is the stoop: a steep, controlled dive used to pursue birds in flight. The combination of speed, precision and aerial control has made the species an enduring symbol of falcon flight.

Where Peregrine Falcons live

Historically, cliffs have provided ideal nesting ledges and open airspace for hunting. Peregrines also use coastal headlands, mountain faces and river valleys. In many cities, tall buildings and bridges now function much like artificial cliffs, giving the birds elevated nest sites close to abundant prey.

How they hunt

Peregrines feed mainly on other birds. Rather than relying on a single prey species, they take advantage of whatever suitable birds are common in a region. They often hunt from a high perch or while circling above open ground, then accelerate into pursuit.

Nesting and family life

A Peregrine Falcon does not build an elaborate stick nest. Instead, the female usually makes a simple scrape in gravel, soil or loose material on a protected ledge. The pair defends the nesting area while the young develop and learn to fly.

From the field guide to Aves & Atlas

The Peregrine Falcon’s strong silhouette, pointed wings and unmistakable facial markings make it especially suited to natural-history illustration. Explore the Peregrine Falcon T-Shirt, or browse more species in the Birds collection.