The peregrine falcon, a bird of prey found across nearly every continent, holds a distinguished position at the top of many food chains. Renowned for its incredible speed, it is often considered the fastest animal on Earth, capable of reaching over 200 miles per hour during its hunting dives, known as stoops. This aerial prowess and its role as a formidable predator of other birds lead many to wonder what, if anything, preys upon such a powerful creature. While adults are dominant, their vulnerability varies depending on age and circumstance.
Predators of Young Falcons
Peregrine falcon eggs, chicks (called “eyases”), and fledglings are more vulnerable to predation than adult birds. Nests, often situated on high cliffs or tall human-made structures, offer some protection, but they remain susceptible to various predators. Great horned owls are notable predators of young falcons, sometimes impacting peregrine populations in certain regions. Golden eagles and other larger raptors may also opportunistically prey on nestlings and fledglings.
Terrestrial predators can access nests, with animals like raccoons, martens, and foxes known to raid for eggs and young. Snakes also pose a threat, adept at climbing into nests to consume eggs and chicks. Corvids, such as crows and ravens, are opportunistic and may target unattended eggs or young. Young falcons are particularly susceptible during their fledging period, as their inexperience in flight makes them easier targets for a wider range of predators.
Predators of Adult Falcons
Adult peregrine falcons face few natural predators due to their exceptional speed, agility, and defensive behaviors. However, larger avian predators pose a threat, primarily great horned owls, which ambush falcons, especially at night while roosting. Their nocturnal hunting ability gives them an advantage over the diurnal peregrines. Golden eagles and gyrfalcons, which are larger falcon species, can also prey on adult peregrines, particularly if their territories overlap.
Intra-species predation, where one peregrine preys on another, can occur, especially during territorial disputes or competition for resources. Mammalian predators like bobcats, coyotes, and wolverines typically do not hunt healthy adult falcons, posing a threat only if a falcon is injured, grounded, or incapacitated.
Factors Increasing Predation Risk
Several circumstances can increase a peregrine falcon’s susceptibility to predation. Physical impairments, such as injury or illness, can significantly hinder a falcon’s ability to hunt or evade predators. Older falcons may also experience a decline in their physical capabilities, making them more vulnerable. Exhaustion, from long migrations or intense hunting, can reduce their defenses.
Being caught off guard also elevates risk; falcons are more exposed while roosting at night when nocturnal predators like great horned owls are active. Extreme weather conditions can impair their flight or hunting abilities, making them easier targets. Human-influenced factors also contribute to vulnerability, including collisions with vehicles, windows, or wind turbines, which can cause injuries or fatalities. Environmental contaminants, such as heavy metals or historical pesticides like DDT, can weaken falcons by affecting their health and reproductive success, making them indirectly more susceptible to natural threats.