Peregrine Falcon

A migratory raptor of Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean

Peregrine Falcon in Flight

Peregrine Falcon

(Falco peregrinus)

Halcón peregrino, Halcón de patos, Halcón viajero.

Identification: Medium sized with strong facial markings and long, pointed wings. Adults have blue-grey backs, light chest, and fine barred belly. Juveniles are dark-brown above, lighter underneath, and dark-streaked chest and belly.

Flight behavior: Strong and direct flapping when not soaring. Solitary flyer, but occasionally soars with other raptors in thermals.

Remarks: Breeding populations are found everywhere except Antarctica. This falcon is the fastest animal on the planet, reaching up to 320 kilometers per hour while diving.

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