The peregrine falcon is the world’s most widespread raptor and one of the most widely found bird species. Also known as the duck hawk, it is the most widely distributed species of bird of prey. Breeding populations of peregrine falcons are found on every continent except Antarctica and some oceanic islands.
The peregrine falcon also enjoys the reputation of being the fastest bird on Earth. It can fly at a speed of 300 km/h. In fact, it is the fastest of any living creature on Earth. According to the National Geographic, the highest measured speed of a peregrine falcon is 389 km/h!
Peregrine falcons are formidable hunters; they can catch prey in the middle of a flight. Peregrines hunt from above and, after sighting their prey, drop into a steep, swift dive. Although its diet consists almost exclusively of medium-sized birds, peregrines will occasionally hunt small mammals, small reptiles, or even insects. Sixteen sub-species of the peregrine are identified so far.