DIET

Peregrine falcons specialize on avian prey. They are extraordinarily agile and fast on the wing. They kill other birds by stooping at high speed, striking with partially closed feet, and catching them in midair as they fall to the ground. They are also capable of overtaking prey in level flight and grabbing them from the air. Peregrine diet varies with season and location. In coastal Virginia, they feed a great deal on shorebirds during spring and fall. In urban areas, they feed on pigeons, grackles, blue jays and other medium-sized birds. Peregrines take birds of varying size from small passerines to larger ducks and other waterbirds.