15 peregrine falcons hatch in Buffalo

Wildlife experts in New York said 15 peregrine falcon chicks hatched in Buffalo this year, allowing for the species to make a comeback in the area. Peregrine falcons were wiped out from the East Coast in 1964 because of DDT pesticides found in their prey, which reduced breeding success. There are currently 72 nesting pairs, which mate for life, living in New York, most calling New York City home. Seven of those nesting pairs have settled in Buffalo, and there could be more as 15 falcon chicks hatched in the city this year, The Buffalo (N.Y.) News reported Monday. The first pair arrived in Buffalo in 1996, followed by the others over the years after wildlife biologist began placing nesting boxes for them on tall structures in the area. "The falcons have established themselves well because of readily available prey, such as pigeons," said Connie Adams, senior wildlife biologist for the Department of Environmental Conservation. "The falcons think Buffalo is a fine place to live." Many of the chicks have since left their parents' nests, but were examined and banded by DEC wildlife biologists earlier this summer.