The very real possibility of the birds’ extinction caused worldwide concern, and led to major recovery efforts across North America. Eventually, it was discovered that the pesticide DDT was responsible for the birds’ decline. In the 1950s, peregrine numbers began to drop, and by the mid 1960s, the falcon had disappeared from Ontario. View a larger version of this map ( PDF) What threatens it Although Peregrine Falcons now nest in and around Toronto and several other southern Ontario cities, the majority of Ontario’s breeding population is found around Lake Superior in northwestern Ontario. The historic North American distribution of the eastern subspecies is east of the Rocky Mountains and south of the tree line. This species is widely distributed, found on every continent, except Antarctica. Cities offer peregrines a good year-round supply of pigeons and starlings to feed on. Urban peregrines raise their young on ledges of tall buildings, even in busy downtown areas. Although most people associate Peregrine Falcons with rugged wilderness, some of these birds have adapted well to city life. Peregrine Falcons usually nest on tall, steep cliff ledges close to large bodies of water. As with most birds of prey, the female is much larger than the male. Juvenile peregrines appear darker than the adults. Peregrine Falcons have sharp talons and pointed hooked bills that make them good hunters.

Another distinguishing feature of this falcon is its bright yellow feet and legs. Peregrine Falcons have pointed wings that span about one metre, a narrow tail and adults have a prominent black “moustache.” The dark feathers on the falcon’s head make the bird look like it’s wearing a helmet. The Peregrine Falcon is a crow-sized bird with a slate blue back and a cream-coloured chest covered in dark markings. This is one of Canada’s most well known species at risk, owing to almost 50 years of public attention and conservation efforts. Read the most recent assessment report ( PDF) What it looks like Date added to the Species at Risk in Ontario List “Special Concern” means the species lives in the wild in Ontario, is not endangered or threatened, but may become threatened or endangered due to a combination of biological characteristics and identified threats. Photos: Doug Wechsler/VIREO (left), MNRF (middle), and Doug Wechsler/VIREO (right) Status Special Concern

Falcon peregrin