Much admired by city dwellers, I swiftly scan their pavements for my next victim, my catch of the day. High above the sprawl, overpowered by my speed and dexterity the city lies beneath. Scattering creatures await my next landing…

Who am I? I hear you ask…

I am, of course, the great Peregrine Falcon.

Continuing on the theme of my last blog, urban wildlife, I have decided to delve deeper into the subject and address, more specifically, our urban birdlife.

A newer addition to the urban landscape is the Peregrine Falcon.

This large and powerful falcon is swift and agile in flight reaching speeds of up to 180kph. It is recognisable from its long, broad, pointed wings and short tail. It is blue-grey above, with a blackish top of the head and white face.

Chasing prey requires vast, open terrain for hunting. Peregrines are most often found along rocky seacliffs and the uplands of the UK, as well as east coast marshes in the winter. Recently peregrines have started to inhabit urban environments, using man-made constructions, especially tall buildings, as nesting sites.

The peregrine feeds primarily on birds, such as medium-sized birds, such as wading birds, pigeons, doves, waterfowl, songbirds, waders and small ducks. They can exist in most environments as long as there is enough prey available for hunting.

Written by Ellen Parnevelas

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To read more about Peregrine Falcons, check out our book RSPB British Birds of Prey