I became aware of this book via this video by Sean Tucker. The book presents the relatively mundane and repetitive daily activities of peregrine falcons in a beautifully poetic story. It’s a testament to what one can accomplish through creativity but more importantly what they can see by focusing with great intent on their task. Over the course of the book the author sees himself transforming in to a peregrine and translating the world of the peregrine to something humans can appreciate.
The writing is among the most vivid and eloquent that I think I’ve ever read, but I couldn’t help thinking that everything was being repeated. But that repetitive variety kept drawing me back. Baker’s relentless pursuit of the birds emphasized his dedication to knowing the birds. The result of this intense focus is a wonderfully crafted journal of the daily activities of a wild hunter that operates with unapologetic intent and efficiency.
I have actually had the opportunity to see peregrine falcons in flight on a couple of occasions. These have all been at work. Throughout our region there are a few peregrine nesting sites. The birds tend to occupy one nest for a long time and actually form couples that will stay together throughout their lives. Some of the sites are high atop bridge piers. In the spring our state conservation department tags the baby birds and we offer assistance with our bridge crane. They are fiercely defensive of their territory and their young and cause quite a ruckus with frequent swoops at the rangers performing the tagging. Iām not much of a birdwatcher, but I have found great deal of interest, respect and awe for the peregrine falcon.
Link to the book: The Peregrine by J.A. Baker