Young peregrine falcons take wing, freeing up some hiking spots Aug. 1

Vermont cliffs monitored for nesting peregrine pairs are open Aug. 1 for recreationists. (VTF&W Photo by Tom Rogers)

Hikers and rock climbers can return to Vermont cliffs starting Aug. 1, now that peregrine falcon nesting season has ended.  The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department has confirmed that all the young falcons have learned to fly and should not be disturbed by people exploring the cliffs.

“The young peregrines have fledged, and nesting data suggest Vermont falcons had a successful year,” said Doug Morin, the state's migratory bird biologist, in a statement Tuesday.  “The falcon’s nesting success is due to a combination of factors, including good weather and 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.” 

A final report on this year’s progress will be issued later in 2021. According to Audubon biologist Margaret Fowle, who coordinates the monitoring effort on behalf of the state, biologists and volunteers monitored peregrine pairs that occupied at least 52 Vermont cliffs in early spring and summer. 

“We greatly appreciate the time and effort volunteers put into monitoring the population this year, and we thank landowners and recreationists for their cooperation in protecting nesting peregrines from human disturbance,” Fowle said in Tuesday's announcement.

Vermont Fish and Wildlife and Audubon Vermont partner to monitor and protect peregrine nesting sites in Vermont.  Peregrine falcons were removed from the state’s Threatened and Endangered Species List in 2005. In the Tuesday statement, Fish and Wildlife officials said they expect continued progress: 

"The ongoing cooperation from recreationists and continued monitoring efforts by Vermont Fish and Wildlife and Audubon Vermont will help ensure the peregrine’s remarkable recovery in future years."

— Gareth Henderson

Click here for a list of the sites that will reopen for recreational use on Aug. 1.