~ The peregrine is the fastest bird
on record reaching horizontal cruising speeds of 65-90 kmh ( 40-55
mph) and not exceeding speeds of 105-110 kmh (65-68 mph). When
stooping, the peregrine flies at much greater speeds however,
varying from 160-440 kmh (99-273 mph)!
~
Both the
adult male and female help care for the nestlings.
~
A male
Peregrine is referred to as a "tiercel" meaning third. The female, which
is slightly larger and more powerful than the male, was preferred,
and only she is given the title of "falcon."
~ By 1968,
the Peregrine population was completely eradicated east of the
Mississippi River.
~
Peregrine
falcons are about the size and weight of a crow.
~ The
nest itself is little more than a shallow scrape, shaped by the
birds in soil or accumulated debris.
~ Courtship behaviors
can be seen all seasons of the year but especially during courtship
as the mated pair approach and greet each other after being apart.
~ When
the young falcons are 3 weeks old, Division of Wildlife biologists
examine the birds to determine their sex and take a blood sample
used to track DNA and possible chemical contaminants. Biologists
also equip each bird with metal leg bands that are used to identify
the falcons in the future.
~
A
young falcon in the nest is called a nestling or an eyas (pronounced
I-es). They are covered by white down when they hatch, which is
replaced by feathers in three to five weeks.
~
Prey
is caught in flight. Using its great speed, the falcon delivers a
powerful blow to its prey with a half-closed foot. It retrieves the
dead bird either in mid-air or after it falls to the
ground.
~
They
have very good eye sight ~ they can spot a meal up to a mile
away.
~
Their
range is about 30 miles with their nest in the center of their
range. They do not like other falcons within 3 miles of their
nest site.
~
Use
same nest year after year, mate for life.
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