I do think this is a peregrine falcon.

Nope, sorry, he's FAR too large. This bird had a four four and half-foot wingspan and probably weighed-in at eight pounds- at least twice the size of a falcon. Also, the markings are very different from a Peregrine. Peregrines are more brown, with a buff belly and a black marking around the eye. There is also not much (or no) yellow on a Peregrine.

Sorry for the correction, hon. I don't mean it in a hurtful way at all. But it was a real treat to get up pretty close to these birds- one actually flew right past my head. So close, that I felt his wings brush my hair! Very cool experience.

I'd know if it were a peregrine... or a falcon at all for that matter (*nudge* that's an eagle). I'd be glee'ing all over it. Once you've seen a peregrine falcon, you never mistake the guy again ;)

Guess it's about the same as people calling an F-15 an F-16 (and vice versa, etc. with other jets)... :D