The next few weeks are the best time of the year to see numbers of peregrine falcons as they migrate south. The species is all the way back from the brink of extinction and putting on a show for those who care to view it.
This species has a worldwide distribution, found on every continent except Antarctica. They are found the length and breadth of North and South America. They breed in Greenland as well as in New York City, Boston, and many other cities on skyscrapers and bridges. They are extremely adaptable.
The birds that nest in the High Arctic and Greenland migrate by the Cape and Islands on their way south. A few overwinter in our area. They have absolutely no fear of flying over, or migrating across, open water.
They bring a new meaning to eating on the fly. They are often seen at sea flying along slowly, reaching down to their talons and taking a bite of whatever bird they have captured. They are capable of catching and killing birds much larger than themselves, but choose small easy-to-carry-and-eat prey when they are going to have to remain airborne. Peregrines can eat pretty much anything they want.
Generally, they feed like most raptors, on whatever prey is most abundant. In migration they are completely opportunistic and essentially will take whatever they are given. In other words, any bird too far from cover or caught out over the ocean can become a meal for these skilled hunters. They catch and eat the commonest species of the day.
