The Fastest Animal On Earth

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

This is an easy one. However, I must clarify the ‘fastest bird on Earth.’ The peregrine falcon qualifies for the fastest bird title, only when it is diving for prey. Some sources say they can fly up to 240 mph. On the other side of that, they are not particularly fast when traveling in level flight. In fact, they would not even qualify for the top 10 in the latter case. Still, impressive when diving.

The peregrine falcon is a raptor (bird of prey) that, aside from its speed, is most well-known for its falconry training, where they are used for hunting. They can be found on all continents except Antarctica. Their typical lifespan is 13 years, however, the oldest peregrine on record was 19 years, 9 months. In 1992, that bird had been banded in Minnesota and found in 2012 in the same state. They are found in all 48 states in the U.S. along with Alaska and Hawaii.

Their diet consists mostly of birds, especially shorebirds and ducks. However, in cities they are masters at catching pigeons and sometimes feed upon reptiles and rodents. Hunting birds is when they utilize their astounding speed diving from the sky. The term duck hawk is often used when referring to them.

Both the male and female raise their young. Their nesting sites are skyscrapers, water towers, cliffs and other tall structures. Peregrines generally mate for life, returning to the same nesting site each year. The male peregrine is referred to as ‘tiercel’ and the chick is called ‘eyas’ (nestling hawks). Interestingly, the female is called the ‘falcon.’ You can view them ‘live’ online and enjoy watching them care for their young.

As with some other bird species DDT poisoning occurred during much of the twentieth century, putting them at risk of becoming locally extinct in the United States and Canada. Fortunately, with the DDT ban in the 1970s, the peregrine has steadily increased, thereby removing them from the federal endangered species list.

Information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

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