The Sellwood Peregrine Falcons

There are Peregrine falcons that have been nesting under the Sellwood bridge in Portland Oregon. The sun came out today and I was able to get a good picture of one of the Sellwood’s resident falcons with some good lighting.

The peregrine falcon is one of the most impressive birds of prey in the world. With its powerful wings and sharp talons, the peregrine falcon is capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when diving for prey. This impressive speed, combined with its agility and keen eyesight, makes the peregrine falcon a formidable hunter.

The peregrine falcon is found on every continent except Antarctica, and is the most widely distributed bird of prey in the world. It is a medium-sized raptor, with a wingspan of up to four feet and a body length of up to two feet. The peregrine falcon has a slate-gray back and a white underside, with a black head and a black stripe running down its face.

The peregrine falcon is an apex predator, meaning it is at the top of the food chain. It feeds primarily on other birds, such as ducks, pigeons, and shorebirds, but it will also take small mammals, reptiles, and even insects. The peregrine falcon hunts by diving from high altitudes and using its speed and agility to catch its prey.

The peregrine falcon has a long and storied history. It was once a symbol of power and prestige, and was used for falconry by kings and nobles. Unfortunately, the peregrine falcon was nearly wiped out in the mid-20th century due to the use of DDT and other pesticides. However, thanks to conservation efforts, the peregrine falcon has made a remarkable recovery and is now a common sight in many parts of the world.

The peregrine falcon is an amazing bird of prey, and its impressive speed and agility make it a formidable hunter. Its long history and remarkable recovery make it an inspiring symbol of resilience and hope. The peregrine falcon is truly a remarkable creature, and one that deserves our admiration and respect.