Peregrine Falcon Survey Planned--Glenn Stewart, UC Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group In an effort to quantify the level of recovery of the peregrine falcon population in California and renew baseline studies on an annual, statewide basis, the UC Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group (SCPBRG) plans a survey for spring 2003. We need the help of people who know of peregrine nest sites, and who are willing to make at least two visits to the sites this spring.

The recovery of the peregrine falcon population in North America has been called the most successful wildlife conservation project in history. In a collaborative effort, non-profit organizations teamed with agencies and volunteers to accelerate recovery of peregrines after use of DDT was curtailed. On the West Coast, we released almost one thousand captive-reared young hatched from both thin-shelled wild eggs and eggs produced by our captive flock to the wild by hacking, fostering and cross-fostering. In 1964 no peregrines were known to remain east of the Mississippi River. A 1970 survey of peregrines in California revealed just two pairs nesting successfully. After more than two decades of recovery and management work, peregrines were removed from the federal endangered species list on August 20, 1999. They remain listed as state endangered and fully protected in California.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will coordinate required, post de-listing surveys of peregrine falcons nationwide beginning in 2003. Territory occupancy, and nesting success data will be collected by the Service at three-year intervals through 2015. Survey personnel in each state will visit a randomly selected sample of nest sites to fulfill the requirements of the USFWS survey. In California, the SCPBRG will coordinate survey efforts for the USFWS. In addition, we intend to gather information from as many nest sites as possible and to repeat the survey annually. We have maintained the most comprehensive peregrine falcon database in California since 1975 but there are currently many additional unknown territories.

Given known increases, we estimate there are more than 250 breeding pairs of peregrine falcons in California today, but no comprehensive survey has happened since 1992. Since the breeding season comprising intense courtship through fledging is approximately 100 days long, and peregrines often nest in very remote areas, we are asking for help from those who know of, or suspect, peregrine breeding activity in their area. If you wish to report a site known to you, or even better, wish to commit to observing the site, please contact us. Given the audience of this newsletter, it goes without saying that peregrine falcon nest sites are sensitive so all nest territory locations remain confidential.

To participate:

1. Contact us at falconet@cats.ucsc.edu to express an interest in participating and describe the site you wish to observe.
2. Go to, www.scpbrg.org and click on the "Peregrine Survey" button to learn more about survey protocol and guidelines, detailed descriptions of peregrine behavior and vocalizations, and print a survey form to complete and return.