1. Black Feathers: The body of peregrine falcons is primarily covered in dark slate-grey or blackish-brown feathers. The overall tone of these feathers is dark and provides excellent camouflage against dark skies, rocks, and tree branches, making them less visible to both prey and potential predators.
2. White Undersides: Peregrine falcons have a contrasting coloration on their undersides. Their lower belly, chests, and underwing coverts are almost entirely white. This white coloration helps break up their silhouette when seen from below, further aiding in camouflage during hunting and resting.
3. Black Malar Stripe: One of the most prominent features of peregrine falcons is their bold black malar stripe. The malar stripe extends from the base of the bill, through the eye, and down the side of the neck. This stripe is so prominent that it gives the falcon its characteristic "masked" appearance.
4. Blue-Grey Back and Wings: Peregrine falcons have blue-grey upperparts, including the back and wings. This coloration helps them blend into the sky and enhances their aerial camouflage during flight.
5. White Throat Patch: Many peregrine falcons have a small white patch on their throats, right below the black malar stripe. This patch helps distinguish them from other falcon species and contributes to their overall unique appearance.
Overall, peregrine falcons exhibit a combination of dark grey-brown feathers on their bodies, white undersides, a prominent black malar stripe, blue-grey upperparts, and a distinct white throat patch. These colours work together to create an effective camouflage strategy for hunting and a distinctive appearance that sets them apart in the avian world.