Peregrine falcons may be the fastest bird in the world, but restoration of this Maine Endangered Species is a marathon, not a sprint.
1960s: Peregrine falcons disappeared due to the pesticide DDT
1984-1997: 144 young peregrines reintroduced in Maine
1987: First reestablished nesting pair located in Maine
2002: Maine population reached 15 pairs
2022: 21 of 32 pairs that were observed this year successfully produced 53 chicks
Despite the positive trend since reintroduction, the peregrine population is small and continues to benefit from monitoring and management.
Peregrine falcons likely live closer to you than you realize…. Peregrines nest on cliffs, such as near popular hiking trails on Mt. Kineo in the Moosehead Region and the Precipice in Acadia National Park, as well as in urban sites including old mills and bridges throughout Maine.
Learn about the work done in 2022 and future plans in the annual Maine Peregrine Falcon Program Report.
Cellular game camera photos courtesy of Justin Sweitzer, MDOT