BIRD-watchers are being captivated by the site of some of the fastest creatures in the world practising their flying skills.

Seven-week old peregrine falcons are now "on the wing" at Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales, delighting visitors by practicing their aerobatics, often directly overhead.

The three young birds are quickly becoming masters of the air and are building up their strength by spending long periods chasing each other and harrying the local jackdaws.

The parents are still bringing in food several times a day- which means that, with luck, people visiting will be treated to the spectacular sight of a "food pass" - when an adult bird brings in prey and calls to the juveniles, who fly up to meet the parent, turn upside down and take the food from the talons.

The park's wildlife conservation officer, Ian Court, said: “They still have a lot to learn but, under the watchful eye of their parents, they will start to develop the skills needed to survive on their own. With three hungry youngsters to feed, we can look forward to seeing plenty of activity over the next few weeks.”

There is a free public viewpoint at the base of the cove.