Peregrine Falcon

The ultimate aerial predator. This powerful falcon has broad, pointed wings and a short tail. It is slate-grey above with a black 'hood' and a heavy mustache stripe. Its underparts are white and heavily barred with black. It lives on sea cliffs, mountains, and high buildings in major European cities.

The Peregrine is famous for its high-speed vertical dive to strike prey in mid-air. During the dive, it pulls its wings tight to become aerodynamic. They nest on high ledges and are territorial. Their call is a loud, rhythmic 'hek-hek-hek'. They can catch prey much larger than themselves.