Female peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus). This falcon, found throughout Europe and western Asia, is the world's fastest living animal. It can dive to speeds in excess of 300 kilometres per hour. This dive is the bird's method of hunting. Once height is gained, the bird's wings are folded into its body to achieve a streamlined shape. The peregrine dives and impacts upon its prey at great speed, killing it instantly. Peregrines usually hunt birds such as pigeons, but will occasionally prey on small mammals.