ETWP: Notice of a Proposed rule to move the American Peregine Falcon From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is reviewing the status of the American peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum), currently classified as endangered under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Data currently on file with the Service indicate that this subspecies has recovered following restrictions on the use of organochlorine pesticides in the United States and Canada and because of management activities including the reintroduction of captive-bred peregrine falcons. Therefore, the Service intends to propose removal of the subspecies from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife and the critical habitat designation. The Service will also propose to remove the similarity of appearance provision that currently exists for all free-flying Falco peregrinus within the 48 conterminous States. Protection provided to American peregrine falcons by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act will not be affected. To ensure that the Service's proposal is based on the best available scientific information, the Service seeks data and comments from the public.