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Current Status:

Continued DDT contamination of avian prey species that winter in Latin America; human use and development of foraging areas, especially wetlands; shooting; human disturbance of nest sites; and collisions with wires, fences, and cars threaten the species. Eggshell thinning remains a problem in much of northern California and remains severe along the California coast.

Achievements:

Although the early 1970s saw a reduction of breeding pairs from several hundred to only 5 or 10, the status of this species in California has improved in response to legal protection, restrictions on organochlorine pesticides (e.g., DDT) in the U.S. and Canada, and captive-breeding and release of more than 700 young birds throughout the State. By 1992, the number of known active peregrine sites had increased to 113, and 104 offspring were born in the wild. The Fish and Wildlife Service is considering reclassification of this subspecies from endangered to threatened.

Recent section 7 consultations have involved timber harvest activities conducted by the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the Hoopa Tribe (through the Bureau of Indian Affairs), as well as consultations on powerline construction and nest ledge enhancement projects. In general, agencies have been quite successful in planning activities to avoid adverse effects, and no jeopardy opinions have been issued.

Current Recovery Needs:

Evaluation is needed to determine if further manipulation, population monitoring, contaminants studies, and habitat protection should continue, particularly at nest sites and foraging areas. Continued removal of thin-shelled eggs for laboratory incubation from nests with known reproductive impairment also is needed.

Section 6 Funding and Activities:

In FY 1992, the California Department of Fish and Game received $10,000 for inventory work.

Partnerships

Bureau of Land Management: Less than one-half of the known peregrine falcon sites in California are on Bureau of Land Management land, but this agency leads in peregrine monitoring statewide and is active on the California Peregrine Falcon Working Team.

Forest Service: The Forest Service has provided funding for the Statewide falcon recovery effort and monitored sites on its land. It also participates actively on the California Peregrine Falcon Working Team.

National Park Service: Numerous peregrine falcon eyries occur in national parks. The Federal agency supports Statewide reintroduction efforts.

California Department of Fish and Game: The Department participates actively on the California Peregrine Falcon Working Team.

The Peregrine Fund: Much of California's recovery effort has been funded by private donations to The Peregrine Fund for captive breeding and reintroduction.

The Nature Conservancy: The Nature Conservancy has helped acquire lands containing peregrine falcon eyries.

Recovery Plan Status:

Original plan approved 8/3/77; revised 12/14/84.