The resurgence of peregrine falcon populations in the U.S. following DDT bans has faced setbacks as bird flu affects them, particularly coastal populations reliant on infected waterfowl. Urban nesting falcons have thrived, showcasing adaptability to city environments. Wildlife biologist Christopher Nadareski emphasizes this resilience amid harsh conditions, while Kathy Clark highlights the severe impacts vulnerable coastal falcons are experiencing. The incredible recovery since the 1970s reflects conservation efforts, yet the recent decline amplifies concerns about ongoing avian health amidst ecological challenges.
"Wildlife can really adapt to these harsh urban environments," said Christopher Nadareski, research scientist with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. "That's the key here, is that despite these harsh living conditions for them, they still find ways to survive."
The populations of peregrine falcons, which were once renovated due to conservation efforts, have begun to decrease again because of the bird flu that has devastated many avian species in recent years.
By the 1960s, peregrines disappeared from the eastern half of the country due to the use of the pesticide DDT, which made their eggshells too weak to hatch.
After being banned in 1972, DDT aimed conservationists to recover the species from the brink, with their numbers going from fewer than five pairs in 1980 to nearly 45 by 2021.
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