Peregrine Falcon Native Coneflowers
Peregrine Falcon Recovery Still In Progress

Considered the fastest animal in the world, the peregrine falcon, Falco peregrinus, is a medium-sized raptor with long pointed wings and a streamlined body. Peregrines are magnificent and powerful and for many inspire a sense of awe and freedom. The name "peregrine" comes from the Latin referencing the birds' wandering flights over the sea and to their secretive nesting sites. Peregrine falcons mostly nest on sheer cliffs with long distance views although they have been recorded nesting on bridge abutments and tall buildings. Their diet consists almost entirely of other birds.

The peregrine falcon is a nationally recognized iconic species that has entered a previously uncharted phase in wildlife restoration - sustaining the species’ recovery long after its removal from the Endangered Species List. While we celebrate the peregrine’s success, short and long term threats to the species’ viability remain. There has been occasional evidence of elevated levels of pesticides, contaminants and significant eggshell thinning in Vermont and other northeastern states. Other issues such as encroachment of development, direct human disturbance and predation indicate that continued vigilance through monitoring and management are essential to ensure the viability of peregrine populations in the East. 		Peregrine falcon
Peregrine falcon

The National Wildlife Federation's Northeast Natural Resource Center (NWF) is the coordinator of the peregrine falcon recovery efforts in Vermont. NWF biologists work with volunteers and partners to monitor and protect nesting cliffs during the breeding season as part of a partnership with the Vermont Department of Fish and Wildlife (VFWD). The Audubon Society of New Hampshire (ASNH), New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC), Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, and State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection monitor their states peregrine populations.

View a peregrine falcon article written for AT Journeys, provided courtesy Appalachian Trail Conservancy, February 2007 (16 Kb)

Related Resources

2007 Breeding Status and Population Dynamics of Peregrine Falcons in Vermont (PDF/748K)

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