Observations of nesting Peregrine Falcon are requested from birders for the 2010 Ontario-wide survey. The results of the survey which is coordinated by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources will help assess the status of this threatened species. The aim is to locate and monitor all Peregrine Falcon nesting activity as part of a survey conducted every 5 years.
The peregrine has been undergoing a gradual recovery since the population collapsed due to DDT effects in the early 1960s. During the 2005 survey, peregrine were reported from 78 sites in Ontario and it is likely that even more sites will be documented in 2010. In northern Ontario, Peregrine Falcon typically nest on high, steep cliffs, often overlooking large bodies of water. In central and southern Ontario, they are usually found in urban centres, where they may nest on tall buildings, bridges and smokestacks, and also on artificial cliffs in quarries. Birders should report Peregrine Falcon nesting activity during the March-August breeding period. Information collected includes: signs of an occupied territory, territorial pair or confirmed nesting; nest location; information on banded birds; number of eggs or young; and observations of fledged young. Please remember that this is a protected species, and nesting birds should not be disturbed. Observers who help with established falcon watch programs, including the Canadian Peregrine Foundation are encouraged to continue to report their sightings to those programs as this information will be shared with the 2010 survey. Reports should be submitted by email to jenn.chiko...@ontario.ca or lisa.ny...@ontario.ca or can be provided directly to local OMNR district offices. Thanks, Chris Risley Peterborough _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to ONTBIRDS mailing list ONTBIRDS@hwcn.org For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
