Peregrine Falcon

Sure, cheetahs get all the attention for their blazing running speed, but in terms of pure velocity, no animal can touch a diving peregrine falcon, which this entry in the Blink of an Eye: Superfast Animals series points out right off the bat. Subsequent spreads cover such topics as where peregrine falcons live and their nesting habits, aerial abilities, and, best of all, hunting techniques. Lunis pays special attention to the falcons’ primary threats; though their natural predators are only larger birds of prey, the widespread use of DDT devastated their population before conservationists stepped in. Dynamic, sometimes exhilarating photos (including a stunner of a falcon hot on the tail of a terrified pigeon, followed by a feathers-flying mealtime shot) accompany the straightforward text. Additional factoids pop up inside a stopwatch graphic, reinforcing the speed angle of the series, and the layout is engaging and uncluttered. This exciting, appealing introduction to one of the great birds of prey won’t disappoint. A glossary, index, and additional resources conclude.