‘I’ve known some of these peregrines for 15 years’: protecting Scotland’s raptors – in pictures

The fastest birds in the world, peregrine falcons are sought after for racing and can sell for up to £250,000 in the Middle East. Poaching is a constant threat, with eggs and chicks stolen to supply the hidden market. Now, there are nationwide efforts under way to ring and take DNA from wild chicks – but just reaching their nests can be perilous

• Words and photographs by Murdo MacLeod