a Kestrel enjoying the hunt in Texas suburbia

As apex predators, falcons and ospreys play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems by controlling populations of smaller birds and preventing overpopulation of certain species.
They primarily feed on birds, including pigeons, starlings, and smaller birds like sparrows. They are known to target birds that are in flight, making them one of the few predators capable of catching other birds mid-air.
Some falcon species, such as Peregrine Falcons & Ospreys, have adapted well to suburban environments where they prey on pigeons and other birds.