Hacking has proven to be a successful means of reestablishing a breeding population in the wild. Peregrine carcasses and unhatched eggs continue to be analyzed for DDT and other contaminants. Although DDT contamination has been reduced in this country, it continues to affect the peregrine and its prey outside our borders. Laws banning the use of DDT were passed by New York State in 1971 and by the federal government in 1972. Gradual increases in the breeding population have been recorded throughout the east. New urban nests have been reported upstate for the first time in Albany. In 1998, 38 pairs were present in New York, 36 bred, 31 were successful and 69 young fledged. Release programs initiated by the Peregrine Fund in the mid 1970s have resulted in peregrine falcons breeding in New York once again. By 1965, all were gone and populations in other parts of the country showed similar declines. S., including 40-50 historic eyries (nest sites) in New York. These pesticides cause eggshell thinning which drastically lowers breeding success.Īt one time, there were approximately 350 breeding pairs in the eastern U. Exposure to DDT and other chemical contaminants has caused population declines since the 1940s. Like many other birds of prey, peregrine falcons have suffered from the use of pesticides. The nest itself is a well rounded scrape and is occasionally lined with grass. Nests are built on high ledges, 50 to 200 feet off the ground. Within its range, this falcon prefers open country from tundra, savannah and seacoasts, to high mountains, as well as open forests and tall buildings. Wintering occurs as far north as British Columbia and Massachusetts, as far south as Central America and the West Indies. Natives of this continent formerly bred from Alaska and Greenland south to Georgia and Baja California. In addition to North America, they are found in southern South America, Eurasia, Africa and Australia. The worldwide range of peregrine falcons is more extensive than any other bird. Individuals may live as long as 20 years. Sexual maturity is generally reached at two years of age, but one-year-olds have been known to produce young. Young falcons may stay in the area for about six weeks after they fledge, developing their flying and hunting skills.

Both parents participate in incubation and brooding activities, but the female remains at the nest for the majority of the time while the male hunts and brings food to her and the young.

The single brood fledges after 35-42 days. The average clutch consists of three to four eggs which hatch after an incubation period of 29-32 days. The pair climbs high in the air and performs a precise acrobatic act of whirling spirals and steep rapid dives, often touching in midair. The courtship flight is a spectacular sight. Peregrine falcons generally return to the same nesting territory annually and mate for life.

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