Peregrine Falco peregrinus - Imposing
Thanks to its increasing acceptance of urban buildings the chances of seeing a Peregrine, the fastest bird in flight, are increasing. Their fate, however, has followed a mixed history. Prized for falconry they were protected by royal decree in medieval times prior to becoming the object of persecution when hunting with guns became the 'sport' of the day. During the Second World War around 600 were exterminated by the government in order to protect message-carrying homing pigeons. Further to this, during the 50's and 60's numbers suffered a massive decline due to the increased use of pesticides injested through prey eaten and causing breeding failure due to eggshell thinning. Fortunately the tables have turned and conservation efforts have resulted in increased numbers of this thrilling raptor of the sky.
Thank you all for your kind responses.
Peregrine Falco peregrinus - Imposing
Thanks to its increasing acceptance of urban buildings the chances of seeing a Peregrine, the fastest bird in flight, are increasing. Their fate, however, has followed a mixed history. Prized for falconry they were protected by royal decree in medieval times prior to becoming the object of persecution when hunting with guns became the 'sport' of the day. During the Second World War around 600 were exterminated by the government in order to protect message-carrying homing pigeons. Further to this, during the 50's and 60's numbers suffered a massive decline due to the increased use of pesticides injested through prey eaten and causing breeding failure due to eggshell thinning. Fortunately the tables have turned and conservation efforts have resulted in increased numbers of this thrilling raptor of the sky.
Thank you all for your kind responses.