Best time to see: all year
Key facts
Spectacular falcon that 'stoops' to dive-bomb its prey at speeds well over 100 mph
They almost died out last century from persecution and pesticide poisoning, but have been recovering
Normally nest on inaccessible rock ledges but have taken to ledges on tall buildings, including in London and Southend
Recognition
Male (tiercel) has long pointed wings and long tail, grey back, barred underparts and heavy black 'moustache'; 36–38 cm
Female (falcon) is browner and larger; 45–47 cm
In flight, alternate rapid flapping with long glides, until they spot prey below and dive to strike it
Lifecycle
Nest either on a bare ledge or in the abandoned nest of another species
One brood of 3–4 red-brown eggs, usually in April, incubated mainly by female
Both parents feed the young, which leave the nest after 35–40 days
© David Harrison
© Alan Williams