Quick answer
Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) are birds found across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania. The fastest animal on the planet. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.9 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of Over 380 km/h (240 mph) in a dive, and live Up to 15 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore (mainly birds) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, from Arctic cliffs to tropical coasts and modern cities.
Key takeaway
Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) are birds found across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania. The fastest animal on the planet. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.9 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of Over 380 km/h (240 mph) in a dive, and live Up to 15 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore (mainly birds) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, from Arctic cliffs to tropical coasts and modern cities.
Peregrine Falcon overview
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is a bird listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.9 kg; lifespan around Up to 15 years in the wild.
Peregrine Falcon ecology
Diet: Carnivore (mainly birds). Habitat: Cliffs, coasts, open country, and cities. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Peregrine Falcons and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild peregrine falcons are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Peregrine Falcon profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Peregrine Falcons inhabit Found on every continent except Antarctica, from Arctic cliffs to tropical coasts and modern cities. Their preferred habitat includes cliffs, coasts, open country, and cities, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult peregrine falcons typically measure about 0.5 m in length and weigh roughly 0.9 kg (2 lb). They can sprint at Over 380 km/h (240 mph) in a dive when hunting or escaping predators. Peregrine Falcons are known for the fastest animal on the planet — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Peregrine Falcon FAQs
What are key facts about peregrine falcons?
Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) are birds found across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania. The fastest animal on the planet. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.9 kg (2 lb), reach speeds of Over 380 km/h (240 mph) in a dive, and live Up to 15 years in the wild. They feed on carnivore (mainly birds) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Found on every continent except Antarctica, from Arctic cliffs to tropical coasts and modern cities.
What is the scientific name of the peregrine falcon?
Falco peregrinus — used in research and conservation listings for peregrine falcons.
What do peregrine falcons eat?
Peregrine Falcons eat mainly birds, with seasonal and regional variation in Cliffs, coasts, open country, and cities.
Where do peregrine falcons live?
They are associated with Cliffs, coasts, open country, and cities. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of peregrine falcons?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.