Vermont cliffs monitored by biologists and volunteers for nesting Peregrine pairs this spring and summer will open August 1st for recreationists. Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department photo courtesy of Tom Rogers.
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department recently announced that Peregrine Falcon nesting season has ended, so hikers and rock climbers can return to Vermont cliffs starting August 1, 2018.
“The young Peregrines have fledged, and nesting data suggest Vermont falcons had a very successful year. A final report will be issued later this year,” said Vermont Fish & Wildlife’s migratory bird biologist John Buck. “The falcon’s nesting success is due to a combination of good weather and the cooperation from hikers and rock climbers who observe a respectful distance from nesting falcons during this critical period. Peregrine nesting success would not be possible without more than 50 volunteers who monitor the nest sites statewide from March to the end of July.”
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department partners with Audubon Vermont to coordinate the efforts of a team of biologists and volunteers who monitor the sites, which tallied at least 57 cliffs this nesting season. Peregrine Falcons were removed from the state’s Threatened and Endangered Species List in 2005. Ongoing cooperation from recreationists and continued monitoring efforts will help ensure the peregrine’s remarkable recovery in future years.
Want to see a Peregrine with your own two eyes? First view this map of recent Peregrine Falcon sightings reported to Vermont eBird, then grab your binoculars and hit the road (or trails). We encourage you to participate in monitoring this species by reporting your own Peregrine Falcon sightings to Vermont eBird, a project of the Vermont Atlas of Life. It’s easy and fun – check it out!
