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Falcon

Prey During the Day: Falcons, as part of the group known as birds of prey, have acute eyesight, muscular legs and sharp bills. Most birds of prey hunt during the daytime, unlike owls.

World's Fastest Birds: Some species of falcon are barred forest falcon, Eleonora's falcon and the peregrine falcon. The peregrine falcon is one of the fastest birds in the world and can be found on every continent, except Antarctica. In this species females are 30 percent larger than the males. The peregrine falcon is a powerful flier and attacks its prey in a steep dive, during which it may reach a speed of 145 mph.

Falcon Conservation: The 1950s saw a steep decline in peregrine falcon populations due to DDT pollution. Through conservation efforts this falcon is making a slow comeback.

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How Stuff Works

How Do Peregrine Falcons Fly So Fast?
The peregrine falcon is the fastest-moving creature in the world. How can it reach speeds of 200 to 250 mph? Find out at HowStuffWorks.com.