|
|||||||
My LinksEcologyFood Vernal Pools |
Falco peregrinus |
Physical DescriptionWingspan-35 to 46 in.Body Length-13 19 in. Weight:20-35 oz. Females are 30% larger than males, but both male and female, look the same. (ADULTS) 1. Blue-gray back that extended up towards the head, as a "helmet" 2. Dark wedges under eyes 3. White feathers covering the buff chest and throat. Distinct mustaches on adults and immatures (IMMATURES) 1. Brown under-parts with heavy streaking. 2. Buff chest and throat 3. Long wings that taper to the point. Diet and Feeding HabitsPeregrine falcons are one of the fastest birds on the planet. To catch a prey, they would be flying in the air scanning the land for it’s prey. When it spots one, it will swoop down and kill it with it’s beak and sharp talons. They eat species such as mourning doves, pigeons, shorebirds and small reptiles such as lizards.ReproductionThe peregrine falcon will lay about 2-6 eggs. Most peregrine falcons would use nests that were built by other birds that are found on high cliffs or tall buildings in an urban area. Both parents incubate the eggs until they hatch, but the female incubates the eggs most of the time.HabitatPeregrine falcon usually breed in mountainous and coastal regions of Maine. The nesting area requires a cliff for perching and needs to provide plenty of food for the family.Role in the EcosystemThe peregrine falcon plays a role in which it keeps its prey population controlled. Since the peregrine falcon preys of bird such as ducks and pigeons, they would keep its population controlled. The peregrine falcon is almost at the top of the food chain. It has no natural predators but the great horn owl and golden eagles. |
