The Indian Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus peregrinator) also called Black Shaheen (not to confuse with the "Shaheen" name usually referred to the Middle-East peregrine falcon) is the indian subspecies of the Peregrine Falcon. 

The Indian Peregrine falcon is a stocky powerful bird. It is one of the smallest supspecies of the Peregrine falcon, the male, always smaller than the female only weights 300 gr. 

In the left upper corner of the illustration you can see it compared to "Falco peregrinus pealei" from the Alaskan and Siberian Pacific islands the biggest subspecies, a giant that can weight 1500 gr.

The most striking feature of this beautiful little falcon are the stunning rufous  underparts and underwing coverts which are definitely characteristic. 

The upper parts are very dark, almost completely black, hence the name "Black Shaheen". 

The Indian Peregrine falcon is typical of the Indian subcontinent, its range goes from Pakistan in the east to southern China in the east. It can be found especially in rocky and hilly areas.

In my illustration is portrayed in a rocky and tropical habitat, typical of the warm coastal areas of India and Sri Lanka.

This is the first illustration of a series of artworks dedicated to the subspecies of the Peregrine falcon, one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan birds.