Peregrine

Another of Ramsey’s birds to feature in Britain’s history books is the peregrine falcon, whose latin name, Falco peregrinus, means ‘pilgrim‘ or ‘wanderer‘. This is particularly apt as they can be found in every area of the world, apart from New Zealand and Antarctica, making them possibly one of the most successful species of bird on the planet. 

The peregrine is the fastest living creature on the planet, having been clocked at speeds in excess of 240 mph in their stoop after prey, an awe-inspiring sight unless you are a pigeon, their favourite food. They hunt a variety of species of birds and catch their prey on the wing, hitting them at incredible speeds. Death is almost instantaneous and pigeons explode in a burst of feathers, leaving the peregrine with its dinner practically ready plucked.