Wildlife

Wild Peregrine Falcon Prey Base Welfare

Peregrine falcon welfare depends on abundant, accessible prey - particularly pigeons and starlings - whose population changes affect raptor welfare.

Key Facts

Peregrines feed primarily on medium-sized birds including pigeons, starlings, and thrushes
Urban peregrines have benefited from feral pigeon abundance in city centres
Racing pigeon losses to peregrines create conflict with pigeon fanciers
Prey bird population changes cascade to peregrine welfare through food availability
Peregrines are apex predators indicating a healthy prey base ecosystem

Welfare Considerations

Peregrine welfare as an apex predator depends on the health of prey bird populations. Declining urban pigeon populations in some cities are reducing prey availability for urban peregrines. Conservation of a healthy prey base ecosystem is therefore a welfare requirement for peregrine populations.

What You Can Do

Support legal protection for peregrines against persecution by pigeon fanciers
Contribute to peregrine monitoring tracking urban and rural population trends
Appreciate the ecosystem health that peregrine presence represents