Scientists Oppose Canada-US Bid to Relax Peregrine Falcon Trade Protections Ahead of CITES Vote

International Debate Over Peregrine Falcon Protection

A joint proposal by Canada and the United States to reduce trade protections for the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) has drawn significant opposition from an international coalition of scientists. The proposal, slated for a vote at the upcoming Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Conference of the Parties (CoP) in Uzbekistan in late November, seeks to move the species from CITES Appendix I to Appendix II.

Currently, peregrine falcons are listed under Appendix I, which prohibits international commercial trade of wild-caught birds and imposes strict regulations on captive-bred specimens. The proposed shift to Appendix II would loosen these restrictions, allowing commercial trade with certain controls.

Rationale for Downlisting and Scientific Counterarguments

The Canada-US proposal asserts that the peregrine falcon population has made a remarkable recovery, citing its classification as 'Least Concern' by the IUCN Red List in a 2021 assessment. Proponents argue that the majority of falcons used in falconry are captive-bred, suggesting that a downlisting would have minimal impact on wild populations and would reduce administrative burdens.

However, scientists opposing the change raise several critical concerns:

• Incomplete Population Data: The IUCN assessment is primarily based on well-studied populations in North America and Europe, covering only 8 of the 19 known subspecies. There is scarce information from other regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where small, isolated populations could be highly vulnerable.
• Recent Declines and Outdated Data: Opponents contend that the data presented is outdated, pointing to recent declines in peregrine numbers. For instance, migrating falcon populations in Falsterbo, Sweden, have reportedly plummeted by approximately 50% since 2020, and breeding adults in Sweden saw a 40% decrease in 2024 compared to peak numbers four years prior.
• Risk of Double Counting: Scientists highlight the potential for migratory birds, such as those found in Greenland, to be 'double-counted' across different regions, leading to inflated population estimates. While Greenland's peregrine falcon populations appear stable, their migratory nature makes accurate assessment challenging.
• Increased Illegal Trade: There are fears that downlisting could stimulate illegal trade, particularly in areas with inadequate enforcement. The high market value of falcons, with some rare color morphs fetching up to USD 113,000, coupled with ongoing illegal trade activities, presents a significant risk.
• Threat to 'Look-alike' Species: A downlisting could inadvertently endanger other Appendix I species, such as the gyrfalcon and laggar falcon, which are difficult to distinguish from juvenile peregrines.
• Avian Flu Concerns: The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has emphasized the 'significant risk' posed by avian flu to wild peregrine falcons, advocating for a 'zero quota on international trade in wild-caught individuals.'

Historical Context and Previous Opposition

The peregrine falcon's journey to recovery is considered a major conservation success story. The species faced near extinction in the mid-20th century due to the widespread use of pesticides like DDT. Following its addition to the U.S. Endangered Species List in 1970 and the international ban on commercial trade of wild peregrine falcons under CITES in 1975, populations rebounded significantly.

This is not the first attempt to reduce the peregrine falcon's trade protections; a similar proposal in 2016 was overwhelmingly rejected by CITES member countries.

Upcoming CITES Vote

The fate of the peregrine falcon's trade protection status now rests with the 184 member countries and the European Union, who will cast their votes at the upcoming CITES CoP meeting. The decision will determine the future international trade regulations for this iconic migratory bird.