Quick Answer
Yes, peregrine falcons do live in Virginia. The peregrine falcon is found across much of North America and can be seen in all regions of Virginia.
Overview of Peregrine Falcons
The peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) is a widespread raptor species found on every continent except Antarctica. It has one of the largest natural ranges of any bird species in the world. Peregrines are best known for their speed when diving after prey, reaching speeds over 200 mph, making them the fastest animal in the world.
Some key facts about peregrine falcons:
- They are large falcons, around 15-20 inches long with a wingspan of around 3.5 feet.
- Adults have blue-gray upperparts and barred underparts. Their undersides vary from whitish to rufous.
- Peregrines prey almost exclusively on other birds, especially pigeons and ducks.
- They nest on tall cliffs, urban buildings, and bridges. The female typically lays 3-4 eggs.
- Peregrine numbers declined last century due to pesticide use but have rebounded after successful conservation efforts.
- While still considered a Species of Least Concern, local populations in some areas remain threatened.
The peregrine is a crow-sized falcon with long, pointed wings. Its back and upperparts are dark blue-gray. The undersides vary from whitish to a reddish-brown hue with black bars. Peregrines have a black head with thick sideburns, along with yellow legs and feet. Immature birds are brownish overall with streaking on the undersides.
Peregrine Falcons in Virginia
Peregrine falcons can be found across the entire state of Virginia. They reside year-round in many areas, while northern parts of the state may only host migrating peregrines during the winter months.
According to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR), peregrines breed in all physiographic regions. This includes the Appalachian Plateau, Ridge and Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain.
The peregrine was listed as a state endangered species in 1977, when the population reached its nadir. At that time, there were no known breeding pairs east of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Thanks to recovery efforts, the species rebounded enough to be delisted in 2003.
While still considered rare, Virginia now has a number of nesting sites scattered across the state. Some of the main breeding locations include:
- The cliffs and bluffs of the Upper James River area
- Bridges and buildings around Richmond
- The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel
- Mountain cliffs in Shenandoah National Park
- Tall buildings in the Tidewater region
The peregrine falcon is less common in southwestern Virginia, where rocky cliffs are limited. Migrating peregrines from farther north may visit the region during winter months.
Habitat in Virginia
Peregrines are found in diverse habitats across Virginia. Natural cliff habitats include areas along the Appalachian Plateau, such as the cliffs along the Upper James River. The mountainous western portion of the state provides additional nesting sites.
In other areas, peregrines have adapted to nesting on tall human-made structures. Bridges, buildings, smokestacks, and radio towers in cities provide adequate nesting substitutes for cliff ledges. Coastal areas and along major rivers like the James also attract peregrines.
Outside of the breeding season, peregrines use a wider variety of habitats while hunting. Forest clearings, marshes, meadows, and agricultural fields provide hunting grounds for pursuing birds. Almost any open habitat near water or wetlands may attract wintering peregrines.
Population in Virginia
Current breeding population estimates place Virginia’s peregrine falcon population at around 25-35 breeding pairs. Several decades ago, the state population was near zero.
Recovery efforts began in the 1970s when peregrines were listed as federally endangered. A hacking program was initiated in Virginia in 1978. This involved releasing captive-bred young at nest sites to imprint on their new home areas. Hacking was carried out at sites like Shenandoah National Park.
By 2003, the total peregrine breeding population had increased enough to justify removing state endangered status. The federal government followed by delisting the species from the Endangered Species Act in 1999.
While still considered rare statewide, Virginia’s peregrine population appears to be steady or increasing slightly in recent years. Continued monitoring at nest sites will be important going forward. Threats like habitat loss and nest disturbance still need to be minimized.
Observation Opportunities in Virginia
The best way to spot peregrine falcons is by visiting known nesting territories, especially during the breeding season of March to July. See below for some of the top sites across Virginia to potentially observe peregrines:
Upper James River
The James River cuts through the Appalachian Plateau, creating towering cliff habitats. Several cliffs commonly host breeding peregrines, including Camp Branch Cliffs, White Rock Cliff, and Catawba Cliffs. Boat tours offer one way to potentially see peregrines along this remote stretch of river.
Richmond Area
Urban peregrines often nest on tall buildings or bridges in downtown Richmond. Some places to watch include the James River Reserve Fleet, Kanawha Plaza, and the Mayo and Manchester bridges over the river.
Eastern Shore
The 23-mile span of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connects Virginia’s Eastern Shore with the mainland. Peregrines frequently nest on artificial nest boxes on the tunnel islands, providing easy viewing opportunities.
Shenandoah National Park
Hawksbill Mountain and Old Rag Mountain have cliff habitats used by peregrines. Hiking near cliff areas may offer a chance to spot a peregrine, especially during spring.
Outside of nest sites, migrating peregrines can be seen across the state in open habitats near water. Coastal areas, marshes, and agricultural fields often attract hunting peregrines. Large concentrations of waterfowl draw in these avian predators.
Diet and Hunting in Virginia
Peregrines are exclusive bird eaters, meaning their diet consists almost entirely of other avian species. In Virginia, common prey includes:
- Rock pigeons
- Mourning doves
- Waterfowl like ducks
- Shorebirds
- Songbirds
Peregrines most often hunt from high perches overlooking open areas like wetlands or fields. Once prey is spotted, they engage in a dramatic high-speed dive called a stoop. Peregrines are the fastest animal on Earth when stooping, reaching over 200 mph. They strike prey in mid-air with clenched talons.
Urban peregrines often hunt feral pigeons associated with bridges, buildings, and city parks. Coastal Virginia peregrines take many shorebirds, gulls, terns, and waterfowl. Almost any decent-sized bird is potential prey.
Threats and Conservation
The peregrine falcon population declined sharply in the mid-20th century. The widespread use of organochlorine pesticides like DDT caused eggshell thinning and nesting failures. Peregrines and other raptors ingested chemicals from contaminated prey. By 1975, there were no known breeding peregrines east of the Mississippi River.
After DDT was banned in 1972, recovery programs helped peregrine numbers rebound. Nonetheless, the species faces continued threats in Virginia:
- Disturbance at nest sites may impact breeding success.
- Habitat loss reduces nesting locations and hunting grounds.
- Collisions with buildings, towers, or vehicles can cause mortality.
- Illegal nest robberies for the falconry trade have impacted some populations.
Ongoing monitoring and protection programs aim to maintain stable peregrine falcon numbers. Nest sites on public lands are kept undisclosed to prevent disturbance. Outreach helps reduce nest robberies and collisions. Prey populations must also remain robust to support Virginia’s falcons.
Conclusion
In summary, the peregrine falcon is widely found across Virginia, breeding in habitats from urban cities to remote mountain cliffs. Conservation efforts have helped peregrine populations recover after declines from pesticide use. The species can now be observed nesting and hunting in regions across the state. With continued monitoring and protection, Virginia’s falcons can continue thriving at nest sites old and new.
