Take a look at the 2024 Peregrine Report





Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife





*mefishwildlife.com*






Peregrines are fast falcons, but Endangered species recovery is a slow process.

Two young peregrine falcon chicks on a cliff ledge.

Peregrine falcon fledglings on a cliff. Photo by Murray Carpenter

Explore our progress in the 2024 Maine Peregrine Report [ [link removed] ]

The peregrine falcon [ [link removed] ] is the fastest animal on our planet. Capable of dives over 200mph, peregrines are symbols of speed, power, and fearlessness. But the conservation history of this Endangered species reveals their more vulnerable side. Their story is one which highlights the importance of collaboration and practical, hands-on wildlife conservation.

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 15 to August 31).

Managing sensitivity to nesting disturbance across diverse sites remains a constant challenge for conservationists. When nest locations are identified, proactive, site-specific conservation strategies are developed to reduce disturbance risks, protect human safety, and promote nesting success.

The newly released Maine Peregrine Falcon Report highlights ongoing collaborative efforts to conserve this magnificent species and provides an update on the status of peregrines in Maine. Last year, 47 peregrine falcon nesting sites were surveyed. Of 33 pairs observed, 26 attempted to nest, and 25 successfully raised 59 chicks, at least 46 of which reached fledging age.

While these numbers represent cautious optimism for a stable Maine population, other northeastern states have uncovered alarming downward trends, underscoring the need for continued vigilance through productivity monitoring, banding, disease surveillance, and disturbance mitigation.

*2024 Maine Peregrine Report* [ [link removed] ]


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How you can help peregrine falcons

An adult peregrine falcon perched with its feathers blowing in the wind

There are two main ways to directly support conservation of peregrine falcons. The first is to report observations through Maine eBird [ [link removed] ].

The second is to avoid disturbing nesting peregrine falcons while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or rock climbing. Respecting trail closures during nesting season keeps you safe from protective peregrine parents, and avoids negative effects of disturbance on nesting success. Familiarizing yourself with signs of agitated falcons will also help you avoid disturbance. Even on open trails, observations of vocal peregrines taking flight or dive bombing are clear signs to leave the area, choose a different trail for your adventure, and report the observation. 

"Peregrine Falcon Photo by Michael Boardman"







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More information

Endangered and Threatened Species in Maine [ [link removed] ] 

Support Endangered Species in Maine  [ [link removed] ]

Peregrine Conservation in Urban Areas [ [link removed] ]

Maine Wildlife Community Science Projects [ [link removed] ]








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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife ·41 State House Station · Augusta, ME 04333-0041 · (207) 287-8000 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]