Which raptor is known for its speed and is often used in falconry?

The Peregrine Falcon is renowned for its extraordinary speed, making it a premier choice in the sport of falconry. It is capable of reaching speeds over 240 miles per hour during its characteristic hunting stoop (high-speed dive), making it the fastest bird and animal on the planet. This incredible speed, combined with its keen eyesight and agility, allows the Peregrine Falcon to efficiently catch its prey, typically birds in flight.

In falconry, the ability to swiftly pursue and capture prey is crucial, and the Peregrine Falcon excels in this regard, making it particularly valued by falconers. Unlike the Golden Eagle, which is a powerful predator but more focused on strength and hunting larger mammals, or the Red-tailed Hawk, which is known for its versatility and adaptability rather than speed, the Peregrine Falcon stands out for its unparalleled velocity. The Bald Eagle, while an impressive bird in its own right, is not specifically recognized for speed in the context of falconry.

Thus, the Peregrine Falcon is the quintessential raptor associated with speed and is frequently employed in the practice of falconry.