Peregrine Falcon Flashcards
What is the peregrine falcon’s scientific name?
Falco peregrinus
What is the wingspan of the peregrine falcon?
Male: 38 inches
Female: 44 inches
How much does a peregrine falcon weigh?
Male: 1 - 1.5 pounds
Female: 1.5 - 2 pounds
Do peregrine falcons mate for life?
Usually, but re-pairings do occur.
Where do peregrine falcons nest?
Cliffs or high buildings.
What is the incubation period of a peregrine falcon?
28 days
Does the father peregrine falcon participate in incubation?
Yes.
How many offspring does the peregrine falcon usually have?
3 - 4
When do peregrine falcon fledge?
35 - 42 days
How long do peregrine falcons live?
Captivity: Up to 28 years.
Wild: Up to 20 years
Females live almost twice as long as males.
What is the habitat and range of the peregrine falcon?
It lives on every continent except Antarctica. It can be found in areas with high cliffs near water. They can also be found in cities.
What do peregrine falcons eat?
Primarily other birds. Ducks and pigeons are the preferred prey. They will also eat reptiles, small mammals, and even insects.
How fast can a peregrine falcon dive?
Over 200 mph
Do peregrine falcons migrate?
Northern individuals will go south during winter, but most are permanent residents.
What are some adaptions of the peregrine falcon?
Streamlined body: Allows for agility and speed in the air.
Keen eyesight: Can spot prey from high in the air.
Strong talons: Allow for quick and easy kills.
Hooked beak: Tears flesh with ease.
Nictating Membrane: Allows the falcon to shield its eyes when diving.
Tubercles: Holes in the beak that direct the air away from the falcon’s lungs.
