Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is a medium-sized (36-48 cm) falcon that was historically distributed throughout North and South America. Peregrine populations decreased drastically with the use of DDT starting in the 1940s, and experienced continuing exposure to pesticides on wintering grounds even after DDT regulation in the U.S. Their rangewide populations have recently stabilized, but at much lower numbers. It is known for its ability to reach impressively high speeds while hunting bats and birds of diverse sizes and occasionally fish and rodents. In New Mexico, they often nest on cliffs that are in open woodlands and forests.