Hikers and rock climbers can return to Vermont cliffs starting August 1 now that peregrine falcon nesting season has ended. The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department has confirmed that all the young falcons have learned to fly and will not be disturbed by human presence on the cliffs.
“The young peregrines have fledged, and nesting data suggest Vermont falcons had a successful year. A final report will be issued later this year,” said Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s bird biologist Doug Morin. “The falcon’s nesting success is due in large part to the hikers and rock climbers who observe a respectful distance from nesting falcons during this critical period. The nesting success of Vermont’s peregrines would not be possible without the more than 50 volunteers who monitor the nest sites statewide from March to the end of July.”
According to Audubon biologist Margaret Fowle, who coordinates the monitoring effort on behalf of the Fish & Wildlife Department, biologists and volunteers monitored peregrine pairs that occupied at least 55 Vermont cliffs in early spring and summer.
“We greatly appreciate the time and effort volunteers put into monitoring the population this year, and we thank landowners and recreationists for their cooperation in protecting nesting peregrines from human disturbance,” said Fowle.
Vermont Fish & Wildlife and Audubon Vermont partner to monitor and protect peregrine nesting sites in Vermont. Peregrine falcons were removed from the state’s Threatened and Endangered Species List in 2005. Ongoing cooperation from recreationists and continued monitoring efforts by Vermont Fish & Wildlife and Audubon Vermont will help ensure the peregrine’s remarkable recovery in future years.
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2019
Media Contacts:
Doug Morin, VT Fish & Wildlife Department 802-793-3837
Margaret Fowle, Audubon Vermont (802) 238-0046