Wildlife

Wild Peregrine Falcon Urban Recovery

Peregrine falcons have made a remarkable recovery from pesticide-driven decline and now breed in cities across the UK, raising new welfare questions.

Key Facts

UK peregrine population has recovered to over 1,800 pairs since DDT ban in 1960s
Urban peregrines nest on buildings and bridges, sometimes causing public fascination
Peregrines face illegal persecution on grouse moors despite full legal protection
City pigeons provide abundant prey, supporting urban peregrine welfare
Nest box provision has extended available nest sites in urban environments

Welfare Considerations

Peregrine welfare in urban environments is generally good, with abundant prey and reduced disturbance. The main welfare concerns are illegal persecution on upland moors and pesticide secondary poisoning. The urban nesting success story demonstrates how protective legislation and prey availability directly support raptor welfare.

What You Can Do

Support organisations monitoring peregrine nesting sites
Report illegal raptor persecution to the police wildlife crime unit
Avoid use of rodenticides on rooftop sites used by urban peregrines