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 Peregrine Falco peregrinus L 40 52, W 85 110. A widespread species which since 1950s has declined dramatically, mainly because of habitat pollution but also theft of young (for falconry) and eggs. Now on verge of extinction in many areas (but increasing again in Britain). Breeds mainly on cliff faces. In winter also on moors and estuaries. Lives on medium-sized birds caught in flight. Most impressive of various methods are the several-hundred-metre-long diagonal downward stoops with closed wings, in which the falcon appears as a blurred blob and a howling noise is created. On impact knocks out prey with its feet. Normal flight not very remarkable: quick and fairly shallow wingbeats, moderate speed. Is distinctly smaller than Gyrfalcon and Saker, and has characteristic compact silhouette with fairly short tail and broadbased but sharply tapering wings. Female markedly larger and heavier than male; male requires more than a glance to separate from Hobby. Adult is characteristic: black and white head, dark blue-grey upperparts, gleaming white breast. Immature brown above like Lancer and Saker, but has full moustache and darker crown. Alarm a scolding 'rek-rek-rek-. . .'. RP
 An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising birds
is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain and Europe,
which is a comprehensive reference guide to Britain
and mainland Europe's plethora of ornithological life.
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