Peregrine falcon figures on a high

Peregrine falcons are making a comeback in the UK, with latest breeding numbers at a historic high.

The population of the species has seen a large increase, particularly in England. A paper published by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) estimates there are now 1,769 breeding pairs in the country – an increase of 22 per cent since 2002. This is largely thanks to population increases in lowland areas, where many peregrines are now breeding on man-made structures.

Out of around 500 monitored pairs in England, just over a quarter were on buildings, pylons or other man-made sites. However, despite the success of peregrines in these newly colonised areas, they are not doing as well in all parts of the UK. The number of breeding peregrines in Wales remains stable, and in parts of Scotland numbers fell.

Samantha Herbert