Wildlife

Wild Peregrine Falcon Urban Recovery

The remarkable urban recovery of peregrine falcons in Europe and North America, with welfare implications of urban nesting.

Key Facts

Peregrine falcons have colonized hundreds of cities across Europe and North America
Urban peregrines nest on tall buildings, bridges, and cathedral ledges
City peregrines prey primarily on pigeons and starlings
Nest cameras on urban peregrine sites engage millions of people with wildlife
Urban habitats lack many rural threats including persecution and pesticide exposure

Welfare Considerations

Urban peregrine recovery demonstrates that conservation can support wild animal welfare by creating safe habitats. City-nesting peregrines have higher survival rates and productivity than many rural pairs, suggesting urban environments can be high welfare habitats.

What You Can Do

Follow your local peregrine nest camera to support and publicize their welfare
Report any suspected persecution of peregrines to wildlife crime hotlines
Advocate for nest platform installation on new tall buildings in your city