[Bird]: Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)

(Bird: Falconidae)

30th June, 2013. Cwmtydu (Wales-UK).

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Notes:

A falcon that can be seen all over the world except in the most extreme of habitats, and may be one of the most widespread bird species in the world. It is the fastest recorded animal when diving steeply at over 200 mph, though is known to be surpassed by the white-throated needletail at normal flight speed. Other swifts may also be faster, but the research on the subject is lacking. 

Though widespread it is rarely common anywhere. Keep an eye on the skies every now and then, as they often soar on warmer thermals.

I have seen this species in:

• Europe (GB)
• America (North) 

The first time I recorded this species:

2nd August, 2009 at the Shatterford section of Beaulieu Road Station, New Forest (Hampshire-UK).

[Bird]: European Kestrel

European (Common) Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

(Bird: Falconidae)

Adult male. 20th June, 2013. Lepe Country Park (Hampshire-UK).

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Notes:

Another common brown bird, but you can't argue that it isn't attractive!  A small falcon, but males and females of this species are almost three times the size of an equivalent gender American kestrel.

I have seen this species in:

• Europe (GB)

The first time I recorded this species:

27th July, 2009 at Testwood Lakes (Hampshire-UK). However, I certainly saw this species before this date.

[Bird]: Eurasian Hobby

Eurasian hobby (Falco subbuteo)

(Bird: Falconidae)

Adult. 2nd August, 2009. Shatterford, New Forest (Hampshire-UK).

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Notes:

Not a very rare falcon, but seldom seen. A swift and elusive bird that passes overhead in a matter of seconds, you better hope you are looking up when that happens!

I have seen this species in:

• Europe (GB)

The first time I recorded this species:

2nd August, 2009 at the Shatterford section of Beaulieu Road Station, New Forest (Hampshire-UK).