Gallery - Birds of Prey-Falcons

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)

The Peregrine Falcon has been classified as an Amber list species-medium conservation concern.

A large, fast falcon of open country with cliffs and crags for nest sites.Has also taken up nest sites on high buildings in towns and city centres.The Peregrine catches birds after a dramatic "Stoop",or captures them by suprise in fast,level flight. Hunts from great height,dropping on to prey at about 160kph.

Hobby (Falco subbuteo)

This is a summer migrant to fields and open woodlands of lowland Europe, where it feeds on large insects and birds, both of which it catches in flight. it is so agile that it often takes Swallows,martins and sometimes swifts. It nests in trees, in the nests of other species.

Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

The Kestral has been classified as an Amber list species-medium conservation concern.

At home in many habitats, from remote mountains to town centres.Frequently hunts beside busy roads. Found throughout Europe,feeds on small mammals,birds and insects which it hunts by hovering or from a nearby perch.

Kestrel verses Merlin

BTO video showing the difference

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

This small falcon of wild, open countryside in Northan Europe for the winter may visit estuaries and farmland. Chases small birds in flight.

© Simon Thurgood 2024
Images on this website may not be put as any part of any collection without any prior written permission.