Nesting pair of Peregrine Falcons on TRGT’s Castle Rock Property!
Jean Tremblay/ Macaulay Library- *Not the Castle Rock Falcons*
TRGT’s avian research staff came across some very exciting news on one of our properties! After a climber reported a possible raptor nest on our Castle Rock tract, our avian research staff and Southeastern Climbers Coalition investigated the report. We are thrilled to confirm a breeding pair of Peregrine Falcons at the site! The Peregrine Falcon is a very rare bird for our area and is a Tennessee State Endangered Species.
"Powerful and fast-flying, the Peregrine Falcon hunts medium-sized birds, dropping down on them from high above in a spectacular stoop. They were virtually eradicated from eastern North America by pesticide poisoning in the middle 20th century. After significant recovery efforts, Peregrine Falcons have made an incredible rebound and are now regularly seen in many large cities and coastal areas." -The Cornell Lab
Castle Rock
Castle Rock
Castle Rock is a very popular rock climbing destination, and as such, we have worked with our partners at the Southeast Climbers Coalition to temporarily close the climbing routes near the eyrie (or nest). The routes will remain closed in the coming weeks as we evaluate the potential productivity of the nest. The routes closure entails the Moat and all routes climber’s right of the Moat. This is very big news for the collective efforts in our area! The Peregrine Falcon was listed as federally endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 1970, but later delisted in 1999 as the population numbers improved. However, the Peregrine Falcon remains on the Tennessee State Endangered Species List and is a closely monitored species. To see them return to our area is a testament to the collective efforts of all conservation organizations in our state.
Castle Rock is a great example of a conservation partnership in Tennessee. TRGT owns the 35-acre Castle Rock property. The Land Trust for Tennessee worked with TRGT on a cooperative agreement to hold a conservation easement on the property in 2014. The Southeast Climbers Coalition holds an additional agreement with TRGT to manage the climbing access. The protection of Castle Rock demonstrates how groups can band together to protect ecologically unique areas and manage environmentally responsible access for recreation.
Information on Viewing the Falcons
While many may want to go see the Peregrine Falcon, it is important to note that the only viewing access of the cliffside is from private property and we do not currently have permission from the land owner to access the area for viewing. We are attempting to identify some public viewing areas for the bird watching community and planning for future guided falcon viewing trips. We appreciate everyone’s patience and pledge to keep you updated with information as we learn more.
For more information about Peregrine Falcon’s check out these links!
Attention Castle Rock Climbers
TRGT strives to protect habitat for sensitive wildlife species, such as the Peregrine Falcon. With the help of our wonderful community, we have been able to conserve thousands of acres of land while also managing environmentally responsible access for the community. To help TRGT continue protecting wildlife habitat, considering donating through the link below. Thank you!