Peregrine, common name of a large falcon. Peregrines are 38 to 50 cm (15 to 20 in) long, with females substantially larger than males. Adults have blue-grey backs, whitish underparts barred with black, and a prominent “moustache” mark on the side of the face. Young birds are brown above and buff below, with streaks rather than bars. Its usual way of hunting is to dive at high speed on to its prey—such as a pigeon or grouse—killing it with a blow from one foot. During the 1960s, peregrines were severely affected by chemical pesticides in several parts of their nearly worldwide range. The pesticides interfered with reproduction, and the birds became wholly extinct as breeding birds in places such as eastern North America. With the prohibition of certain pesticides and the aid of a highly successful captive breeding programme, peregrine populations were able to recover in some areas, and have adapted to urban life, where they nest on buildings and bridges.

Scientific classification: The peregrine belongs to the family Falconidae of the order Falconiformes. It is classified as Falco peregrinus.