Why are peregrine falcon numbers dropping in Cairngorms National Park?

Numbers have dropped due to factors like changing land use, reduced food supply, diseases, and wildlife crime, with a 56% decrease in breeding pairs since 2002.

What is the current population of peregrine falcons in the Cairngorms?

As of the latest survey, there are only 31 breeding pairs of peregrine falcons remaining in the Cairngorms National Park.

Is wildlife crime a factor in the decline of Scotland's peregrine falcons?

Yes, raptor persecution is believed to be a significant threat, with illegal killing suspected as a major contributor to the decline.

Home / Environment / Fastest Birds' Numbers Halved in Scottish Park

Fastest Birds' Numbers Halved in Scottish Park

15 Dec

•

Summary

Peregrine falcon pairs in Cairngorms National Park dropped by 56% since 2002.
Fewer than half of territorial pairs successfully fledged young in 2024.
Possible causes include land use changes, prey scarcity, disease, and crime.

Fastest Birds' Numbers Halved in Scottish Park

The number of peregrine falcons, Earth's fastest creatures, has significantly decreased in Cairngorms National Park. A recent survey revealed a 56% slump in breeding pairs since 2002, leaving just 31 pairs. This alarming decline also saw fewer than half of the park's territorial pairs successfully fledge young in the past year.

Several potential factors are being investigated for this dramatic reduction. These include changes in land use, a dwindling food supply for the birds, the impact of diseases like avian flu, and persistent wildlife crime. Conservationists suspect illegal killing, particularly targeting birds of prey, plays a substantial role.

While landowners acknowledge the concerning trend, they note it reflects broader issues across UK peregrine populations. They also point out that recorded offenses against peregrines in Scotland often occur outside the Cairngorms and are linked to other issues. Avian flu and prey availability are also considered significant contributing factors to the falcons' plight.