Peregrine Falcon

Although Peregrine Falcon numbers have slowly increased in the last 50 years, these deadly apex predators are still rare in the UK with less than 2000 pairs – compare that to the red kite with nearly 5000 pairs. The slow improvement has been attributed to the reduction or banning of organochlorine pesticides which badly affect their breeding.

Peregrines are famous for their speed, reaching up to 320km per hour (200mph) so they are often claimed to be the fastest animal on earth. Usually you would have to travel to Beachy Head to see one but , if you are lucky , you can see a pair on St Peters Church in Tunbridge Wells.

I took these photos of the female almost at the top of the spire where it has a great view for miles around and can dive bomb any unwary wood pigeon that happens by. The locals told me a pair has been in residence from time to time for a couple of years and even raised a chick in 2022 – although not last year – apparently pigeon wings are often found scattered on the ground around the church. This week when I took the photos there was great excitement as a pair has been seen going through their courtship rituals, bowing to each other and displaying. The male is smaller than the female and is white underneath where the female has rusty coloured feathers.

The neighbours are going to keep us informed so I will update on progress later in the year .

Phil