Wildlife

Peregrine Falcon Welfare and Illegal Persecution

Despite legal protection since 1954, peregrine falcons remain subject to illegal killing, poisoning and nest disturbance, particularly in upland areas managed for grouse shooting.

Key Facts

Peregrines are the fastest animal on Earth — exceeding 300 km/h in a stoop
UK population recovered from 360 pairs in 1962 to 1,500+ pairs by 2014
Persecution hotspots correlate strongly with driven grouse moor locations
Nest cameras have helped secure prosecutions for egg theft and killing
Secondary poisoning from pigeon fancying chemicals has increased recently

Welfare Considerations

Illegally killed peregrines often die from acute lead poisoning, strychnine or carbofuran exposure — all causing prolonged suffering. Trapped birds may suffer limb fractures or internal injuries. Nest destruction causes chick death from exposure and starvation. Enforcement of the Wildlife and Countryside Act is inconsistent in upland areas.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB Investigations department monitoring raptor persecution
Report suspected illegal activity to police wildlife crime officers
Back campaigns for mandatory licensing of driven grouse moors
Follow Raptor Persecution UK for news on UK cases
Advocate for stronger penalties for wildlife crime