How Fast Is a Peregrine Falcon? The Incredible Answer!

Last Updated on Mar 12 2024

The peregrine falcon is one of the world’s most iconic aerial predators, with outstanding skills in the sky. But what’s the fastest it can go while in flight? The peregrine falcon is incredibly fast, maxing out at a top speed of 200 mph (320 km/h) when swooping down to catch its prey. But that isn’t all! Look down below to see more about this magnificent creature!

Is the Peregrine Falcon the Fastest Bird?

The peregrine falcon is widely considered the fastest bird species alive. Not only that, but its astronomical speed makes it the fastest animal in the entire world! It might hit 200 mph at its fastest, but it still reaches up to 34 mph in normal flight.

What Is the Fastest Peregrine Falcon Speed Ever Recorded?

Just before the year 2000, a flight by falconer Ken Franklin confirmed that his bird reached a whopping 242 mph (389 km/h). This record was broken by a peregrine named ‘Frightful’ while Ken Franklin was in Washington.

Why Do Peregrine Falcons Dive So Quickly?

Peregrine falcons have become extremely fast because of their food source. They hunt small and medium-sized birds that are also quite acrobatic, so they need as much agility as they can get. While in the air, these birds attack and snatch up their prey, bringing them back to their nest for a tasty meal.

What Makes the Peregrine Falcon So Fast?

Some people might wonder if there is a specific reason why the peregrine falcon is one of the fastest birds. There are two reasons for that:

What Is the Fastest Peregrine Falcon Speed Ever Recorded?

Just before the year 2000, a flight by falconer Ken Franklin confirmed that his bird reached a whopping 242 mph (389 km/h). This record was broken by a peregrine named ‘Frightful’ while Ken Franklin was in Washington.

What Are Some Other Fast Birds?

While the peregrine falcon usually takes the top spot for the fastest bird, there are a few other birds that can reach incredible speeds. The golden eagle can reach diving speeds of 149–200 mph (240–320 km/h), thus making it a close contender to the peregrine falcon in terms of speed. The endangered saker falcon, which is found in the grasslands of Africa and Eurasia, can reach speeds up to speeds of 200 mph when diving in for a kill.

Birds of prey are not the only ones that can reach top speeds while in the air. Anna’s hummingbird can fly up to 60 mph (98 km/h). The spur winged goose found in the wetlands of Africa can fly up to 88 mph (141 km/h), making it the fastest goose in the world!

Final Thoughts

The peregrine falcon isn’t just fast; it’s the fastest bird on the planet! Its aerodynamic body and razor-sharp claws make it an apex predator like no other. The best place to look for the peregrine falcons is near coastal towns with rocky beaches. Here, they may be lurking in their cliffside nests – keep an eye out and see if you can find this species in the wild!

Featured Image Credit: Harry Collins Photography, Shutterstock