This bird of prey, the Falco peregrinus, is the fastest animal species on earth and hits speeds of well over 250 km/h! The word, Peregrination, means to travel, journey or wander, and it from this its name is derived due to the long migrations that they undertake.A prefered bird for falconry, due to their intellegence and speed, in ancient times, it was the bird of kings and lords.

Various sub-species of the Peregrine Falcon are found worldwide and whilst the larger F. p. calidus breeds in the Russian tundra  and migrates to Africa, the F. p. minor is a rare resident found in Sub Saharan Africa. Fortunately due to active conservation efforts, Peregrine Falcons and many other birds of prey were saved from extinction from poisoning.

The Peregrine Falcon achieves its highest speeds in a flying position called a “stoop”. This position is adopted as the Falcon folds its long wings behind its back to form a teardrop shape with perfect aerodynamics. Hunting from a preferred perch or ledge and sometimes found in pairs, Peregrine Falcons begin the hunt by rapidly flapping their wings to gain speed before entering a stoop. The Falcon then strikes its prey at top speed with its hind talons (claws) usually killing it instantly or knocking it to the ground where it delivers the “coup de grace” with a lethal bite using its uniquely developed bill.