The peregrine falcon is the true jet fighter of the skies!  As one of the deadliest birds of prey, it is the world's fastest bird.  It swoops down on its panic-stricken prey at speeds of up to 273 miles per hour (440 kilometers per hour)!  It will often use its talons to strike the prey in order to stun it and knock it to the ground.  The peregrine Falcon then picks up its prey off the ground and carries it to a sheltered place to eat.  Main prey include birds that fly in flocks, such as pigeons, parrots, and starlings.  Here is a portrait of a peregrine falcon.
{}