In February 2009, a Town Hall meeting was held. The purpose was to discuss the upcoming nesting season, the likelihood that our falcons will again mate, and the challenges and excitement that this may bring to building management and residents.

This nest site is reportedly north america's first recorded residential nest site. Protected falcons nesting at a residential site pose unique challenges compared to office towers where they commonly nest, and so a meeting was held to discuss the unique issues faced and how best to address these issues and resident concerns.

Our Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources attended, and helped put into perspective the plight of Ontario's at-risk species, why their recovery is important, and how we can help in this ongoing recovery process.

A brief summary of the meeting:

• A majority of residents are very excited about the prospect of hosting a nesting pair of Peregrine falcons for a second year
• Not all residents are enthused about the falcons, some are concerned with building maintenance issues, safety concerns, and songbird populations
• Our Ministry of Natural Resources explained the history of Peregrine Falcons, from 3000 BC through to the current time
• It was pointed out that Man nearly caused the extinction of Peregrines through use of such pesitcides as DDT
• It was explained that Peregrines have been around long before us, and it is our social responsibilty to help ensure the recovery of the species.
• Nobody wants to say "I helped contribute to the demise of this species", and so we instead play a part in preventing further damage to species numbers.
• With only 70 breeding pairs in Ontario, the recovery of the Peregrine is far from complete, each pair and all offspring are key to the ongoing recovery
• The Peregrine's status in Ontario is "Threatened", a status that entitles the species to protections as outlined in the Endangered Species Act
• It was further explained that the goal is for us to co-exist with the falcons, carrying out our required activities around the building, while minimizing disturbance to the falcons, especially during key nesting/nursery periods
• Various resident concerns were raised, and the MNR expressed a willingness to help guide us as issues arise
• The MNR further reinforced that building management tasks can be carried out, and that they will assist us in conducting these projects in a way that minimizes any adverse impacts on the resident falcons

It was further suggested that stewardship activities are an important part of this process. In addition to our involvement, monitoring, and protection of the falcons, we have an opportunity to share things learned along the way, which in turn helps promote a greater awareness of our natural resources and such protected species as the Peregrine falcon. Certain funding programs are available to support these activities.


The following materials were used for the Town Hall meeting:

1. MNR Powerpoint Slideshow - Peregrine Falcons in Ontario
(3MB PDF)

2. Town Hall Meeting - Dispelling the Myths - Questions & Answers
(18kb PDF)