October is Raptor Month! Let's talk about the fastest animal on Earth.
The peregrine falcon can reach speeds over 200mph but recovery of this Endangered species has been a slow and steady journey.
Peregrines were absent from our state for over 30 years due to negative effects from the (now banned) pesticide DDT. Since reintroduction in the 1980s, a small breeding population has reestablished, successfully nesting on both natural cliffs and in urban environments such as quarries, bridges, buildings, and towers. The population remains vulnerable due to modest numbers and sensitivity to disturbance during the breeding season (March through August).
Last year, 26 pairs and 11 individual peregrine falcons were documented in Maine.
- 20 successful nests (9 on natural cliffs, 11 on human-made structures)
- 44 chicks hatched (35 reached fledgling age, 20 observed in flight)
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Productivity is stable, but disturbance, signs of population stress, and recent declines in other states underscore that our work isn’t done. Rebuilding a population takes time and collaboration.
Managing sensitivity to nesting disturbance across diverse sites remains a constant challenge. When nest locations are identified, proactive, site-specific conservation strategies are developed to reduce disturbance risks, protect human safety, and promote nesting success.
From disturbance mitigation to breeding season surveys, mortality tracking, banding, and more; explore how we keep this raptor’s recovery moving forward in the latest Peregrine Report.
More Ways to Celebrate Raptor Month
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