Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird — and the fastest animal on Earth — capable of reaching speeds exceeding 320 km/h during its characteristic hunting stoop. Found on every continent except Antarctica, it is the world's most widespread raptor and a supreme aerial predator that feeds almost exclusively on medium-sized birds caught in flight. Its dramatic population recovery after the DDT ban is one of conservation's greatest success stories.
Average Length
0.5 m
Average Weight
0.9 kg
Lifespan
15-17 years
Top Speed
389 km/h
WildAtlas insight
Medium elusiveness
Spotting this species in the wild may take some patience, based on its typical traits and behavior.
Why this grade?
These are some of the biological and behavioral factors, among others, that WildAtlas considers when deriving this species level grade.
- Animal group
- Bird
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Social behavior
- Solitary
This proprietary WildAtlas grade describes the animal in general and stays the same across parks. It is separate from park level insights, which depend on local conditions and data.
Quick Facts
Peregrine falcons are the fastest animals on Earth, diving at over 389 km/h.
They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Their eyesight is eight times more powerful than a human's.
Habitat & Range
Habitats
Regions
Behavior & Reproduction
Activity Pattern
Diurnal
Social Structure
Solitary
Gestation Period
29-32 days incubation
Litter Size
3
Predators
Great Horned Owls, Eagles, Humans
Found in Parks
Where should you look for peregrine falcon? Explore each park's biome, habitat, and local conditions. Population, density, and sighting trends will shape future park specific insights.
