Definition & Meaning of "peregrine"

What is a "peregrine"?

A peregrine is a bird of prey that is found throughout most of the world. It is known for its remarkable speed, which makes it one of the fastest birds in the world and one of the fastest animals on Earth. Peregrines have a unique hunting technique where they dive from great heights at speeds exceeding 240 mph (386 km/h) to catch their prey, which usually consists of birds. They have a distinctive appearance with a dark head and a white or cream-colored throat and breast. The back and wings are blue-gray in color, and the legs and feet are yellow.