Aerodynamics of Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus): Stooping, Pull-Out, and Applications in Aerospace Engineering

Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is the fastest avian animal on Earth, cruising at over 300 km/h when it makes its characteristic hunt dive in the mode of stooping. The aerodynamic processes aiding such extreme flight is studied in this paper, and attention is given to wing structure, vortex generation, and flow control mechanisms observed when the bird makes high-speed dives. Results of experimental work from prior research, including lift and drag coefficients that were measured, and the stabilizing role played by specialized feathers against turbulent flow are shown. A mathematical model employing Newton's second law of motion and quadratic drag that leads to a differential equation for the velocity of the falcon as a function of time is formulated. The solution predicts a terminal velocity consistent with dive speeds seen, implying the balance between aerodynamic drag and gravitational force. Elsewhere than biology, the falcon's aerodynamics present an incentive for aerospace engineering, that is, developing efficient, stable, and stealthy aircraft.