Peregrine Falcon

The peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is the fastest animal on Earth, reaching recorded speeds of 389 km/h in a hunting stoop (dive). It kills prey — usually other birds — in midair with a swift blow from its talons or beak. Found on every continent except Antarctica, it is the world's most widespread bird of prey. Peregrine falcons were critically endangered by the pesticide DDT in the mid-20th century — DDT caused eggshell thinning, reducing reproduction catastrophically. Following DDT bans and intensive captive breeding programs, peregrines have made a remarkable recovery. They have adapted to cities, nesting on tall buildings and hunting urban pigeons — New York City alone has dozens of breeding pairs.