W&M Featured Events
[PAST EVENT] VIMS Wachapreague Seminar: Restoration of peregrine falcons in Virginia
Location
VIMS - Seaside Hall (Eastern Shore Laboratory)40 Atlantic Avenue
Wachapreague, VA 23480Map this location
Access & Features
- Open to the public
Peregrine falcons are spectacular aerial predators with a near global distribution. The peregrine falcon was extirpated as a breeding species in Virginia by the early 1960s due to the widespread use of DDT and other contaminants. An aggressive restoration program was initiated in 1978 and continued through 1991 that included the release of 115 captive-reared birds on the Coastal Plain and 127 birds in the mountains. This program resulted in the first breeding of the modern era on Chincoteague in 1982. Since this time, the population has grown to 32 breeding pairs. However, more than 95% of all breeding activity over the past 30 years has occurred on the Coastal Plain with very limited breeding within the historic mountain range. Conflicts between resident falcons and coastal waterbirds have followed from this distribution and continue to be a management challenge. Annual monitoring, banding and management of this recovering population have all led to a better understanding of ecological requirements and management options. Presented by Bryan D. Watts, Ph.D., Mitchell A. Byrd Professor of Conservation Biology, Director, Center for Conservation Biology, William & Mary and Virginia Commonwealth University
There is no charge for this presentation. Seating limited to 60 people.
If you would like to access the seminar on your home computer, please go to:
http://vims.adobeconnect.com/afterhours and log in as a guest at the date-time of the event.
Contact
Linda Ward 757-787-5816