The Peregrine falcon is an iconic bird. It is the fastest creature on the planet when diving in a ‘stoop’ and feeds on birds caught in flight.

Peregrines sit at the top of their food chain and, as such, reflect the health of the environment beneath them. They are fiercely territorial which limits their numbers in areas of favourable habitat, such as remote sea cliffs and upland crags. Fifty years ago, the peregrine came close to extinction through contamination by persistent toxic chemicals. Since then, they have not only recovered their numbers, but the population has grown to its highest recorded numbers in the UK. Its fortunes and history are interwoven with mans developments, and the peregrine can now be found in closer to proximity to man than ever before. Peregrine falcons are now nesting in many towns and cities across the country, with tall buildings, cathedrals and churches now replicating the traditional cliff faces. Peregrines are also utilising man-made structures in rural areas, with power stations, bridges, refinery chimneys, cooling towers, pylons and radio masts also being occupied. As Increasing numbers of peregrines are recorded on man-made structures in towns and cities across the country, so too comes the opportunity to watch, study, record and learn about the species to ensure that some of the mistakes of the past will not be repeated.

The aims of this website are to:

• Increase awareness and understanding of urban peregrines
• Encourage research and gather information on urban peregrines
• Provide information and advice on urban peregrines

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