They have been observed killing birds as large as a Sandhill Crane, as small as a hummingbird, and as elusive as a White-throated Swift. Peregrine Falcons eat mostly birds, of an enormous variety-450 North American species have been documented as prey, and the number worldwide may be as many as 2,000 species. In migration and winter you can find Peregrine Falcons in nearly any open habitat, but with a greater likelihood along barrier islands, mudflats, coastlines, lake edges, and mountain chains. They can be found nesting at elevations up to about 12,000 feet, as well as along rivers and coastlines or in cities, where the local Rock Pigeon populations offer a reliable food supply. In North America they breed in open landscapes with cliffs (or skyscrapers) for nest sites.
The word 'peregrine' means 'wanderer' or 'pilgrim,' and Peregrine Falcons occur all over the world.
