Wildlife

Wild Peregrine Falcon Recovery and Welfare

Peregrine falcons recovered from near extinction due to organochlorine pesticide poisoning.

Key Facts

UK peregrine population was reduced to around 360 pairs by the 1960s from DDT poisoning
Population has recovered to over 1,500 pairs following pesticide bans
Peregrines now breed in cities, utilising tall buildings as nest sites
Illegal persecution on grouse moors continues to suppress populations in upland areas

Welfare Considerations

Peregrines suffering organochlorine poisoning experienced progressive neurological deterioration and reproductive failure before the pesticide cause was identified. Today, illegally persecuted birds are shot, trapped, and poisoned. Disturbance at nest sites causes chick deaths from exposure and predation. Maintaining the welfare of recovered peregrine populations requires vigilant protection against both persecution and disturbance.

What You Can Do

Report suspected peregrine persecution or nest disturbance to the RSPB
Support legal protection and enforcement for raptors
Avoid disturbing peregrine nest sites during the breeding season
Advocate for vicarious liability legislation to hold landowners responsible for raptor crimes