The peregrine is a large and powerful falcon. It has long, broad, pointed wings and a relatively short tail. It is blue-grey above, with a blackish top of the head and an obvious black 'moustache' that contrasts with its white face. Its breast is finely spotted. It is swift and agile in flight, chasing prey. The strongholds of the breeding birds in the UK are the uplands of the north and west and rocky seacoasts. Peregrines have suffered illegal killing from gamekeepers and landowners, and been a target for egg collectors, but better legal protection and control of pesticides (which indirectly poisoned birds) have helped the population to recover considerably from a low in the 1960s. Some birds, particularly females and juveniles, move away from the uplands in autumn.
Key ID Features
Larger than other UK falcons it is broad shouldered and powerfully built.
Closely barred on white underside with white breast and cheek patch.
Adults have blue-grey back and head with yellow eye-ring and base of bill, with broad black lobes on the side of the face and neck.
Regular 'city dwellers' nesting on church spires and other tall buildings.
Overview
Scientific name: Falco peregrinus
Family: Hawks, vultures and eagles (Accipitridae)
Where to see them:
Found along rocky seacliffs and the uplands of the UK are both good places in the breeding season. East coast marshes where there are large gatherings of birds can be a good place in the winter. There are Date with nature events across the UK where you can watch the birds during the breeding season.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Medium-sized birds, such as wading birds, pigeons and small ducks.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: St.John's Church, Bath
Photographer: Tim Tapley
