ON THE WILD SIDE Britain’s got talons
● I WAS walking my dogs on the beach a few weeks ago when I noticed some seagulls acting strangely. To my surprise a huge peregrine falcon was killing a pigeon, watched from a distance by a few confused gulls. By the time I got close the falcon had taken off, carrying the body and leaving only the unfortunate pigeon’s head on the sand. Peregrine numbers hit an all-time low in the 1980s due to poisonings, but they have bounced back and can be seen almost everywhere in the UK, especially in winter when they move into new areas. One of our most recognisable and striking birds of prey, they can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They certainly deserve their name, which means “wanderer”.
We have all heard that peregrines are the fastest bird around, but to be precise they can dive at speeds of a little over 240 miles per hour. The cheetah, the fastest land animal, can only reach 75mph. The falcons use their speed to hunt their favourite food – pigeons. Because man’s best feathered friend is the peregrine’s prefered nosh, they often come into conflict with pigeon breeders and racers. Some more protective pigeon fanciers have been known to target the falcons. I understand it is difficult not to blame peregrines when you see one chowing down on one of your favourite racers, but in reality falcon predation is a minimal threat to pigeons. They are far more likely to die from being hit by cars. Like pigeons, the natural home of the peregrine is steep sea cliffs, but buildings make a great substitute. Many big cities house falcon families high up on the rooftops, and some even have nest cameras to keep an eye on them. It is rewarding to be able to watch the chicks grow and it has the added benefit of protecting them. Peregrines are one of the most well-protected birds in the UK and it is illegal to harm them in any way. I WENT to a new gym and asked the girl on reception about having yoga lessons.
She asked: “How flexible are you?” I told her: “I can’t make Wednesdays.” ERIC Great Yarmouth
HOW do scientists at Nasa organise a big party?
They planet. HUGHIE via email
WHAT’S brown and sticky?
A stick. DAFT BOZ via email
I ONLY lift big weights on Saturdays and Sundays – Mondays to Fridays are weak days.
MANNIE Manchester
BOFFINS have found the gene for shyness.
They would have spotted it earlier but it was hiding behind two others. SHIRLEY J Darlington