Peregrine falcons have been widely reported as being the fastest of the falcons which is in fact not true. The gyr falcon is the largest and fastest of the “falco” species with the power to overtake and subdue quarry in level flight from a standing start. Something a peregrine cannot do. Peregrines have been recorded at speeds in excess of 320 km-ph (200miles an hour) when attacking prey in a vertical stoop (dive) from a high pitch (altitude) . All falcons species have forward facing eyes to enable them to judge distance with pin point accuracy. Their nose (cere’s) are also specially designed with baffles to allow for breathing during high speed decent (stoops).

The following images comprise of both wild and captive bred (trained) falcons of the various indigenous species to North America ranging from the Prairie, Peregrine, Kestrel, Merlins and Gyrfalcons. In the near future Mark also intends to add and expand to some of the exotic raptor and bird species like the rare Laughing Falcon of Belize he displays below. African raptors and birds of prey can also be viewed in his African Wildlife Gallery in the header bar above.