vándorsólyom

The vándorsólyom, known scientifically as Falco peregrinus, is a medium-sized falcon found worldwide. It is renowned for its incredible speed, particularly during its hunting stoop, a high-speed dive. The vándorsólyom's plumage typically consists of slate-gray to bluish-black upperparts and paler underparts with barring. Its distinctive dark head features a "mustache" mark on its cheek.

These birds are adapted to a wide range of habitats, from open country and cliffs to urban environments. They primarily feed on other birds, which they catch in mid-air after a spectacular dive. Their hunting technique involves spotting prey from a great height, then folding their wings and plummeting at speeds exceeding 200 miles per hour.

The vándorsólyom has a global distribution, inhabiting every continent except Antarctica. Their breeding ranges are diverse, and they are migratory in many parts of their range, undertaking long journeys between breeding and wintering grounds. Conservation efforts have been crucial for the species, as populations declined significantly in the mid-20th century due to pesticide use, particularly DDT. With the banning of these chemicals, many populations have recovered, though they still face threats from habitat loss and human disturbance.