African Pygmy Falcons live in dry bush in parts of eastern and southern Africa. These little cuties measure just over seven inches long, making them the smallest bird of prey found in all of Africa.

African Pygmy Falcons, also known simply as Pygmy Falcons, have a unique way of nesting. They use empty compartments in large Sociable Weaver nest structures, or abandoned nests made by other weaver species. Pygmy Falcons are also known to nest in polyandrous groups, with more adult birds than just the breeding pair caring for nestlings and chicks. The African Pygmy Falcon was added to Birdorable on April 25, 2012. If you can't get enough of these adorable little raptors, be sure to check out our range of unique Pygmy Falcon t-shirts and gifts!

Falconry is the sport of hunting with a trained bird of prey. Peregrine Falcons have been popular birds among falconers for thousands of years. When the species became endangered due to pesticide use in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, the expertise of falconers was instrumental in the eventual recovery of the species. In 1970, the North American population was believed to be just 10 or 20 percent of its historical average. The species was added to the Endangered Species list in 1975; at that time there were just 324 known nesting pairs in the United States. Harmful pesticides like DDT were banned, but the population needed additional help in order to increase their numbers.

Because Peregrine Falcons breed successfully in captivity, falconers continued to raise and hunt with captive-reared birds during the time it became endangered in the wild. Later, captive breeding and release programs in the United States, Germany, and elsewhere were extremely successful. These were done with cooperation between government agencies, non-government conservation groups, and experienced falconers. Today, the Peregrine Falcon is no longer on the Endangered Species list and populations have rebounded across much of their near-worldwide range. Peregrines have adapted to nest in urban and suburban settings. In the United States, many urban Peregrine Falcon nests are monitored by volunteers or via remote cameras. Birdorable fans know that our favorite Peregrine Falcon camera is the Rfalconcam in Rochester, New York.

Today's latest Birdorable species is a fantastic bird of prey from Australia: the Black Falcon!

The Black Falcon is a species of raptor endemic to Australia. They are found across a wide range which covers roughly the eastern two-thirds of the continent.

BLACK FALCON Falco subniger by beeater

Black Falcons have an overall dark plumage. Young birds are nearly completely black. Birds become lighter as they age; older Black Falcons are usually a dark sooty brown color overall.

Tomorrow's species is a long-legged bird of South American grasslands. Can you guess what it will be?

The American Kestrel is the smallest species of falcon in North America. The plumage of male and female American Kestrels differs significantly, which is unusual among birds of prey. Kestrels like to dine on insects, small rodents, and sometimes even other birds. One method they use for hunting is to hover into the wind and look down on the ground for available prey items.

We have recently updated our Birdorable American Kestrel. In addition to the perched male and hunting male, we offer a perched female American Kestrel cartoon on apparel and gifts.

The Common Kestrel is native to parts of Europe, Asia and Africa. They hunt by hovering 10 to 20 meters over the ground in search of prey. These small birds of prey are often seen hovering by highways, looking for mice, voles and other small rodents. This is our totally cute version of the Common Kestrel and our 99th Birdorable species:

The Peregrine Falcon, the speedster of the skies, has traded its usual stoic look for a dash of holiday spirit in our latest Birdorable design. Sporting a whimsical Santa hat, this formidable raptor becomes an ambassador of Christmas cheer, proving that even the fastest bird on the planet can pause to celebrate the season of joy.

Peregrine Falcons are known for their incredible hunting prowess and their breathtaking speed, diving to catch prey at over 200 miles per hour. But in this adorable rendition, the Peregrine’s fierce reputation is softened by the playful accessory, reminding us that the holiday season is a time for everyone to come together in warmth and good humor.

Wearing this cute design can spark conversations about the natural world and bring awareness to the Peregrine Falcon's conservation success story. Once endangered due to pesticide use, these falcons have made a remarkable comeback, thanks to conservation efforts around the world—a true holiday miracle worth celebrating.

This festive t-shirt is perfect for falcon enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike. It’s a way to express passion for wildlife, while staying in tune with the holiday vibe. Imagine the smiles and the shared stories about bird encounters that this t-shirt could inspire at holiday gatherings.

As we exchange gifts, decorate our homes, and enjoy the company of loved ones, let’s take inspiration from this Birdorable Peregrine Falcon. Let’s embrace the holiday season with the same speed and fervor as a Peregrine in flight, reaching out to make meaningful connections and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So, whether you're searching for the perfect gift for a bird-loving friend or you want to show off your own love for falcons in a festive way, this Birdorable Peregrine Falcon in a Santa hat is sure to delight. It's a cute, fun, and meaningful way to celebrate the holidays, and who knows, it might just inspire you to learn more about these incredible birds and how we can help protect them for years to come.