The peregrine falcon is a powerful, medium-sized falcon found almost worldwide. It became a symbol of the damage caused by pesticides after DDT wiped it out from much of North America and Europe, and a symbol of recovery after bans and captive-breeding programmes brought it back.
Interesting facts
- Peregrines hit their prey so hard that it is often killed by the impact.
- Bony tubercles in their nostrils are thought to help them breathe at high speed.
- A third eyelid protects their eyes during dives.
- Peregrines have one of the widest distributions of any bird.
- They now nest on skyscrapers, cathedrals and bridges in many cities.
- DDT caused a global crash in the mid-twentieth century; the species has since recovered strongly.
Behaviour
Peregrines hunt by climbing high and then diving on birds in the open air. Pairs defend nesting cliffs or ledges and often return to the same site for many years.
Breeding and young
Females lay 3 to 4 eggs on a bare ledge in a shallow scrape. Both parents incubate the eggs for about a month, and chicks fledge at around six weeks.
Threats and conservation
Globally secure. Local threats include illegal persecution, egg collecting and pesticide residues.
Where to see it
- City cathedral and skyscraper nests (with webcams) in many cities
- Coastal cliffs of the UK and Ireland
- Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, USA
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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