Wildlife Information - Peregrine Falcon
Physical Characteristics
The peregrine falcon measures 16 to 20 inches in length. It has a 40 to 45 inch wingspan. The male weighs 19 to 23 ounces and the larger female weighs 26 to 40 ounces. The peregrine falcon is brownish-gray to dark slate-blue in color. Its lighter underparts are streaked with black or brown. The peregrine falcon has a dark head with a dark stripe on each side of its face and yellow legs and feet.
Home Range
The peregrine falcon has a home range of 17 to 25 square miles.
Feeding Behavior
The peregrine falcon eats other birds, small mammals, and insects. In winter, as prey becomes less abundant, northern inhabitants migrate.
Geographic Location
The peregrine falcon prefers canyon country, cliffs, and bluffs – usually near water. In more recent years, the bird has adapted to urban life, nesting on tall buildings and skyscrapers.
Habitat
The bald eagle prefers forested areas near water, including rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.
Reproduction
Mating occurs sometime between April and July. Nests are constructed on cliffs. Two to five eggs are incubated for 28 to 29 days. The male and female help care for the young. The young are able to leave the nest after 4 to 6 weeks.
Did You Know?
- “Peregrine” comes from the word “peregrinate,” which means “to travel or wander.”
The peregrine falcon swoops down on its prey and drops at speeds upwards of 200 mph.
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