Yes an interesting question. I guess a perched Peregrine
Falcon is not at that very moment a threat to a Pigeon, it is only a
threat when it is flying, especially above or behind them. They clearly know
how to react to the flying predator, maybe they don’t recognise a perched one
as the same thing (?)
Philip
From: Birding-Aus
[ On Behalf Of Bob &
Trish Sothman
Sent: Monday, 24 December, 2018 8:18 PM
To:
Subject: [Birding-Aus] Peregrine Falcon question
A pair of Peregrine Falcons have resided on top of the 12
story Grand Hotel at Glenelg, an Adelaide seaside suburb, for many years. Since
I have been living in the area (three years) I have seen one, most likely the
male (based on size) most days. Occasionally, there are two.
There is also a good sized flock of Feral Pigeons in the
area and on some days when the peregrines are not there, I see 5 to 6 sitting
where the peregrines perch. On several occasions I have even seen several
pigeons perched within 3 – 5 metres of a resting peregrine.
What I don’t understand is why the pigeons appear to show no
fear of the peregrines. I cant find anything in HANZAB on this subject. HANZAB
does indicates Feral Pigeons are Peregrine Falcon’s most common prey. It even
says another name for the falcon is Pigeon Hawk.
Any comments welcome.
Thanks,
Bob Sothman Adelaide
