By 1964, there were no successfully nesting peregrine falcons in North America east of the Rockies and south of the Arctic. They were functionally extinct. So, why do we have them now? How did they come back? And why are they loving cities? One of the heroes of their story is Art McMorris. He was the Peregrine Falcon Coordinator with the Pennsylvania Game Commission from 2004 to 2021. Under his leadership, the Peregrine came to be removed from the endangered species list. This is a story not only for anyone interested in bringing a species back from the brink of extinction but also for those determined to reach their goals while having fun- a requirement for Art.

Highlights

What makes the Peregrine super unique in the animal kingdom?How does a species go from functionally extinct to off the endangered species list?Once a neuroscientist, what skills did Art transfer to help the Peregrine?What lessons did he learn from doing this?

What Can YOU Do

Engage with the natural world. It'll remind you that we are not separate, but rather, a part of it.When you learn of the presence of Peregrine Falcons somewhere, tell that information to your local wildlife agency so they can monitor the animal.Volunteer to monitor nests or be a part of rescue squads and rehabilitators.If you see an injured bird, contact your local wildlife rehabilitator(s) before you try to intervene.Vote for candidates that will support nature.Avoid pesticides. Although we no longer use DDT, what unknown dangers might the pesticides we use have?

Resources

Pennsylvania Game Commission Peregrine Falcon pageĀ 


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