American Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum)
Status: Recently Recovered (Monitored - Federal Register 64(164):46542-46558)
Description: The American peregrine falcon is crow-sized with a wingspan of about 3.5 feet (110 cm). They have a
long tail and pointed wings. Peregrines are slate gray or dark brown above and whitish below. Their crown and nape are black.
In addition, peregrines have a vertical "bandit's mask" pattern over the eyes. Their dark back separates them from the similar,
sandy-brown prairie falcon.
Life History: Peregrine falcons are graceful and powerful fliers. They have been clocked at over 200 m.p.h. while
diving after prey. Peregrines begin reproducing when they are three years old. They are monogamous and mate for life.
Pairs perform elaborate aerial courtship displays at the start of the breeding season. Three to four eggs typically are laid,
but nest failure is common, and juvenile mortality may be very high. Other birds are the primary prey of peregrine falcons.
Habitat: Peregrine falcons nest on high cliffs, often near water where prey species are most common. They have
successfully nested on skyscrapers in large cities where they feed mostly on pigeons.
Distribution: Peregrine falcons are nearly worldwide in distribution. The race Falco peregrinus anatum
once nested over much of North America. Currently, they nest in scattered areas throughout their historic range. Nesting
has never been recorded in Oklahoma. However, peregrine falcons migrate through and occasionally winter in
Oklahoma. They are most often observed along rivers or near large bodies of water.
Causes of Decline: Shooting, human disturbance, and collecting all decreased peregrine falcon numbers.
However, reproductive failure caused by pesticides was the major factor that led to their decline.
Recovery Needs: Banning the use of DDT has improved the nesting success of wild peregrine falcons. The
primary recovery tasks include the continued measuring of pesticide levels and monitoring nesting success.
Other information: The peregrine falcon recovery plan was revised in 1984. Much of the recovery progress
is due to captive breeding and reintroductions. This species was delisted in 1999, and is now being monitored as part of a 5-year review plan.
