Plunging from tremendous heights, the peregrine falcon can reach up to 180 mph in pursuit of prey. It feeds primarily on birds, which it takes on the wing. Adult peregrines are slate-grey above and pale below, with fine dark bars and spots on their underparts. The tail is narrow and the wings long and pointed.
Juveniles are brown overall, with dark streaking below.
Airborne, this falcon can be recognized by characteristic rapid wingbeats interspersed with long glides. Peregrine falcons generally return to the same nesting territory annually and mate for life. The courtship flight is a spectacular sight. The pair climbs high in the air and performs a precise acrobatic act of whirling spirals and steep rapid dives, often touching in midair. The average clutch consists of three to four eggs which hatch after an incubation period of 29-32 days.