The Peregrine Falcon Cited by Many Sources as the Fastest Flying Bird in the World
What is the Fastest Bird in the World?
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| Fast Peregrine Falcon outside my window : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town |
Image: Peregrine falcon swooped into a dive high outside my bedroom window. (Canon 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens)
I am very pleased to read that 'my closest neighbour', the Peregrine falcon, is recognised by many bird and animal speed recording websites as the fasted bird (and possibly the fastest animal) in the world. I have looked at quite a few sources, amongst others, Britannica and Guinness World Records. See measurement / speed references and sources below the second image.
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| Fast Peregrine Falcon flying straight at me : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town |
Image: Peregrine falcon flying directly at me while watching him through my bedroom window. (Canon 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens)
Over the years I have formed a special bond with the Peregrine falcon. Although it is alarming to see them becoming so urbanised, it is in some ways satisfying to see / hear him often so close to me. Captured in the image above he flew straight at me (probably between 20 to 30 times) while I was standing at my bedroom window on the 12th floor - giving me more than enough time to grab my camera. This incident occurred late one Thursday afternoon - over and over with such precision (and soul-piercing eyes) that I became concerned he could fly into the room. Many evenings, at dawn, he would perch outside the bathroom window.
Peregrine Falcon Speed Measurement / Sources:
Measuring a bird or animal speed is by no means an easy and (not always) an accurate measurement, but going through various online sources it seems to be a definite agreement that the Peregrine falcon with a top diving airspeed of +- 300 km/h / 186 mph is the fastest bird.Britannica "The peregrine falcon is best known for its diving speed during flight—which can reach more than 300 km (186 miles) per hour—making it not only the world’s fastest bird but also the world’s fastest animal." (Source: Britannica)
Guinness World Records "The fastest dive by a bird is that of a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), which has been estimated at reaching a terminal velocity in ideal conditions of approximately 320 km/h (200 mph) when in a diving stoop hunting prey on the wing. Some experimental dives have suggested that even higher speeds are possible by this species, perhaps up to 389 km/h (242 mph)." (Source: Guinness World Records)
The Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is indeed recognized as the fastest bird in the world and one of the fastest animals on the planet. Here are some key points about the Peregrine Falcon's remarkable speed:
1. Diving Speed
- The Peregrine Falcon achieves its incredible speed during high-speed dives, or "stoops," when it is hunting prey. In a dive, it can reach speeds of over 240 miles per hour (386 kilometers per hour).
2. Adaptations for Speed
- The Peregrine Falcon has several adaptations that contribute to its speed, including streamlined aerodynamics, powerful flight muscles, and a specialized respiratory system that allows for efficient oxygen intake during high-speed pursuits.
3. Hunting Technique
- When hunting, the Peregrine Falcon climbs to a great height and then goes into a rapid, steep dive to strike its prey. It tucks its wings close to its body during the dive, minimizing air resistance.
4. Range and Distribution
- Peregrine Falcons are found on every continent except Antarctica. They are adaptable birds and can be seen in a variety of habitats, from urban areas to mountainous regions.
5. Diet
- Their diet primarily consists of other birds, and their speed is a crucial asset when hunting agile prey in the air. Peregrine Falcons are known for preying on birds in flight, often striking them mid-air.
6. Conservation Status
- The Peregrine Falcon faced significant population declines in the mid-20th century due to the use of certain pesticides, particularly DDT. Conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and the implementation of breeding programs, have led to the recovery of Peregrine Falcon populations in many regions.
7. Nesting and Behavior
- Peregrine Falcons build nests on cliffs, ledges, or tall structures such as buildings and bridges. They are known for their courtship displays, which involve aerial acrobatics.
8. Subspecies
- There are several subspecies of Peregrine Falcons, adapted to different regions and habitats. Some subspecies are migratory, covering vast distances during their migrations.
Observing the Peregrine Falcon in action, especially during its high-speed dives, is a testament to the remarkable adaptations that have evolved in these birds for efficient and rapid flight. They are a symbol of both natural prowess and successful conservation efforts. (Source: ChatGPT 2023)
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| Peregrine Falcon watching me : Arnhem Milnerton, Cape Town |
Above Images Location: Arnhem / Milnerton, Cape Town (opposite Woodbridge Island)
Peregrine Falcon - Bird Slayer and Dive Master! The Fastest Animal on the Planet
Source: Wildopedia YouTube Channel
Peregrine Falcon: How the Fastest Animal on Earth Attacks Its Prey : Video
The Peregrine falcon is not your average avian predator. When hunting, this remarkable bird will fly to great heights, then dive bomb its prey abruptly at speeds of up to 242 mph.
Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island
