Peregrine Falcon

by Patrick Stirling-Aird

A comprehensive introduction to the formidable winged hunter. Peregrine falcons are famous for their speed--in excess of 200 miles per hour--and their ability to capture prey in mid-flight. That same speed and a preference for inaccessible roosting locations means they are effectively unseen in the wild. They were not elusive enough, however, to avoid near-extinction. But in 1977, a captive-bred peregrine falcon made history by raising a family in the wild. Since then over 4,000 peregrines have been released so that all of the peregrines now living in eastern North America are captive-bred releases and their descendants. Nevertheless threats persist, including pesticides, premature fledging, and tall buildings. Peregrine Falcon brings the rarely seen raptor into full view. Informative text describes their biology, behavior, reproduction and hunting, and tells the compelling story of how peregrines were rescued from the brink of extinction. The most striking feature of the book, however, is the 80 extraordinary photographs of falcons in their natural habitat. Close-up and rich in color and detail, they will leave readers in awe. For that alone Peregrine Falcon is essential.

Genres: Birds, Nonfiction, Nature

128 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2012

Reviews

[Patricia Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting facts about the falcons, specializing on the Peregrine. This clever hunter only weighs a bit over 2 lbs and can dive at 200mph. The pictures are excellent--an artist would love them. It covers everything from the endagered species to the comeback today; how it hunts, mates, raises its young, and how it is used in falconry. Very readable.

[Thomas Hynes · Rating 3 out of 5]

No shit, i actually saw a peregrine falcon fly over the east river the day I finished reading this book. TRUE STORY

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction to the inner life of the beautiful Peregrine Falcon.

[DMREAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a bird handler for the Greater Yellowstone Raptor Experience and our museum store just began to stock this book. It looked so interesting that I picked it up. I just loved this book! The author provides interesting information that is well written and easy for everyone to follow. The director of a our program is always looking for books with great "quick facts" she can use to get audiences of all ages excited about raptors. She also read this book and found new facts that she could definitely use!

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely pictures and accurate up to date information.

[Rachel (Sfogs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting! Really great read.