This pairing of the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb and the peregrine falcon is not an arbitrary one - the peregrine falcon is the fastest being on Earth, reaching speeds of up to 322km per hour when performing a hunting dive.
Knysna Tourism believes that the billboard is a "perfect example of bio-mimicry, brand leverage and brand association. It was interesting to note people asking how we would relate the Speed Festival to the Naturally Knysna brand. Our brand position remains one of recognising that Knysna has its roots firmly based in our natural assets. We will continue to recognise this privilege in all our communication, reinforcing the core values of our brand.”
The peregrine falcon, with its teardrop-shaped body, swept back wings with stiff feathers that reduce air resistance has been used in the design of military jets. Engineers also used a cone in the opening of the engine, similar to the cone-shaped bones protruding from the entrance of the peregrine falcon's nostrils, to prevent large volumes of air rushing to the engines and damaging them. The falcon's nostrils have the same function, controlling the flow of air to its lungs.
According to passionate Radical Raptors’ owner Dennis Robson, there are two pairs of these falcons currently breeding in the Knysna area. One pair has taken up residence on a steep cliff in the Knysna Heads. “I first noticed this pair many years ago and have watched them raise at least three chicks every year since then,” says Robson. The other breeding pair has chosen a gorge at the Bracken Hills Falls to nest and raise their chicks.
Peregrine falcons prey almost exclusively on other birds and have most impressive hunting tactics. They usually attack birds in the air by swooping down on them at great speed. The falcons will strike their victim with talons fully extended, often knocking their prey to the ground and then retrieving it. They are also known to swoop down and catch the falling prey from beneath.
“The peregrine falcon is a small falcon - it looks a bit like a swallow on steroids,” said Robson. “They are often seen in the Knysna area. Look out for a bird flying like the clappers over the tree tops. Remember that they don’t soar, so you’ll never see them hovering in the sky,” concluded Robson.
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