Sequence of peregrine falcon catching a grouse, Sutherland, Scotland. At the top, thfalcon, having sighted the grouse (which has been put up by the falconer's two pointers), peels off to dive. It kicks its wings to increase speed, and then tucks them back for a better aerodynamic shape as it goes into the stoop (the near-vertical dive in which it can reach speeds of up to 100 kph). Near the ground it levels off to chase the grouse, finally catching it in mid-air and 'binding to' (holding it in it talons as it lands)