Peregrine Removed from Illinois' Endangered List

Illinois officially removed Peregrine Falcons from the state Endangered & Threatened Species List.

What does this means for our state population of Peregrine Falcons? First, it is an affirmation of the recovery of the species in Illinois.  This is due in part to the long-term stewardship and dedicated effort of numerous individuals and organizations that have supported and assisted in looking after Illinois’ Peregrines. 

It does not leave our Peregrines unprotected. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act makes it "illegal for anyone to take, possess, import, export, transport, sell, purchase, barter, or offer for sale, purchase, or barter, any migratory bird, or the parts, nests, or eggs of such a bird except under the terms of a valid permit issued pursuant to Federal regulations." Peregrines are protected under this law. 

Another thing the Peregrine’s removal from Illinois’ state Endangered & Threatened Species List will not change is the work conducted by the Chicago Peregrine Program. The Chicago Peregrine Program oversees Illinois' Peregrine Falcon population. This is accomplished in part by monitoring individual birds as well as nest sites, conducting scientific research and participating in public education.

Illinois currently (2015) has Peregrines at 28 different locations in the state, 19 of which are breeding pairs. While the majority of the state population are urban dwellers, Peregrines are using natural cliffs down near Alton, IL.

It has been wonderful to witness the return of Peregrines to Illinois. Many thanks and congratulations to all!