New Mexico Department of Game and Fish |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MARCH 19, 2013: |
DIRECTOR INITIATES INVESTIGATION INTO THE POTENTIAL DELISTING OF PEREGRINE FALCON FROM THE STATE LIST OF THREATENED & ENDANGERED SPECIES Pursuant to the Wildlife Conservation Act [17-2-40, NMSA 1978], the Director is initiating an investigation into the potential delisting of the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum) from the state’s list of threatened and endangered species. Dr. Scott Carleton, a scientist with the United States Geological Survey’s Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at New Mexico State University, has been appointed as the researcher conducting the investigation. Dr. Carlton will be assisted by a peer-review panel composed of one qualified individual from each of the four-year state universities.
The peregrine falcon is one of New Mexico’s most fascinating native raptors and the fastest bird on earth. It is able to reach diving speeds of 240 mph and withstand up to 20 Gs of deceleration while swooping on prey. The species was federally listed as endangered in 1970 and subsequently delisted it in 1999. It was state listed as endangered in 1975 and in response to encouraging observations of increasing occupancy of breeding sites after 1980 it was downlisted to threatened in 1996, where it remains today. The Director has created a public repository to document the process and to accept data, views, and information about the biological or ecological status of the species for use in the investigation. You may send your comments and information via e-mail to: or through regular post to: Repository for Peregrine Delisting Investigation All data, comments and information must be submitted to the repository no later than 5:00 PM June 30, 2013. If you have questions, please direct them to Kristin Madden, Bird Program Manager, Wildlife Management Division (505) 476-8038. Thank you for your interest in New Mexico’s wildlife.
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