Peregrine falcons

Recognizing the problem

After the chemical pesticide DDT came into widespread use, peregrine falcon populations began to decline. The DDT passed through the food chain, causing eggshell thinning and subsequent loss of young in many raptor species. By 1964, the eastern peregrine had disappeared from the U.S., and the remaining western population had suffered a perilous decline. Peregrine falcons, native to Wisconsin, were placed on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Endangered Species List in 1973. After more than 30 years of dedicated recovery efforts, the peregrine recovered and was officially delisted in 1999. However, they remain on Wisconsin's endangered species list.

Helping the recovery

Since 1988, nearly 20 percent of the total peregrine falcons born in Wisconsin have hatched at our power plants.

In 1991, we began installing nesting boxes on several of our power plant chimneys. Since then, nearly 90 peregrine young have been raised at nesting boxes at our Oak Creek, Pleasant Prairie, Port Washington, and Valley power plants and we expect some in the future at our Presque Isle Power Plant in Marquette, Mich.

In 1992, we supported the release of 15 captive-produced peregrine falcon chicks at our Pleasant Prairie Power Plant to support the Wisconsin Peregrine Falcon Recovery program. These birds helped re-establish breeding pairs throughout the Midwest.

Seeing the results

Webcam: You can view images of falcons nesting at our power plants. Nesting and caring for young typically occurs from March through July. Webcams
Video: We support recovery efforts spearheaded by the Wisconsin Peregrine Society, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Milwaukee Public Museum and funded the production of an award-winning 30-minute video on peregrine falcon history in Wisconsin. Order
Reports: Nesting updates from Greg Septon, a We Energies contractor:
2009: Final report (PDF 923k)
2008: Final report (PDF 756k)
2007: Final report (PDF 405k)
2006: Final report (PDF 405k)
2005: Final report (PDF 283k)

Reporting raptor nests

We offer $100 rewards to those who discover and report new woodland raptor nests on our property. Report

Learning more

Peregrine fund