Here's Why Peregrine Falcons Are the Top Guns of the Sky | Deep Look

Peregrine falcons catch other birds mid-flight by diving at more than 200 mph. To do it, they need some high-precision gear: special eyesight, talons and aerodynamics that can't be beat.

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DEEP LOOK is a ultra-HD (4K) short video series created by KQED San Francisco and presented by PBS Digital Studios. See the unseen at the very edge of our visible world. Explore big scientific mysteries by going incredibly small.

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While known for being the world’s fastest bird–peregrines have been clocked at diving more than 200 miles per hour–these majestic birds were at risk for going extinct 50 years ago. Widespread use of pesticides such as DDT decimated native populations of peregrine falcons.

By 1970, California’s peregrine population had dwindled to only two known nesting pairs statewide. The federal government banned DDT in 1972. And successful restoration efforts spearheaded by organizations like The Peregrine Fund helped revive their numbers. By 1999, they were removed from the federal Endangered Species List. Recent surveys estimate that there are now 300 to 350 nesting pairs in California and more than 2400 pairs nationwide.

---+ Read the entire article on KQED Science:

https://www.kqed.org/science/1944037/...

--- What’s the origin of the Peregrine Falcon's name?
Peregrine is Latin for "Peregrinus," which means “traveler” or “pilgrim.”

--- How many eyelids do raptors, or birds or prey, like peregrine falcons have?

They have three! Two eyelids are used for closing their eyes, while the third is used for blinking. It’s also called the nictitating membrane and helps to protect their eyes and keep them moist and clean. It’s semi-transparent, so they can actually still see through it when it’s closed.

--- Did you know they have a special bone to protect their eyes?

It’s called a sclerotic ring and helps support and secure their eyeballs within their skulls.

---+ For more information:
Visit The Peregrine Fund
https://www.peregrinefund.org/

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