Peregrine falcons have colonised urban environments across Britain and North America, nesting on tall buildings and cathedral ledges. Their welfare in cities raises interesting questions about urban adaptation and human-wildlife coexistence.
Urban peregrine welfare is generally good in terms of food availability and reduced persecution compared to rural birds in managed game areas. However, urban birds face specific welfare challenges: rodenticide accumulation through contaminated prey, collision with glass buildings, and disturbance from spectators drawn by nest cameras and guided walks. The popularity of urban peregrines creates both opportunities (public engagement building raptor advocacy) and welfare risks (over-intensive observation). Managed observation with appropriate distances protects welfare while maintaining public connection to these remarkable birds.