![]() It lays two to five eggs, which are all white or white with brownish markings. The breeding population is highest in the northern and southern reaches of Illinois, where nests are found in forested areas. ![]() In 1996, due to significant increases in the breeding population, this hawk was removed from the Illinois Endangered and Threatened Species List. By 1992, the number had grown to 21 counties. ![]() In 1981, this species was known to breed in only four Illinois counties. In almost every instance, the caller has misidentified a Cooper's Hawk (Accipiter cooperii) as a peregrine. I sometimes get calls about a bird-eating "peregrine falcon" in a suburban yard. His recent book of nature essays, "Natural Digressions," covers everything from wildflowers to owls, with a heaping dose of humor. During his career, Spreyer has also worked with the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, National Audubon Society, and Chicago Academy of Sciences and has taught courses for the College of Lake County and Northeastern Illinois University. In 1995, after completing work on a raptor exhibit with the Science Museum of Minnesota, Spreyer migrated back to Illinois to become Executive Director of the Stillman Nature Center. ![]() In 1989, he returned to Minnesota, where he worked with the Minnesota National Wildlife Refuge and other conservation organizations. Under his leadership, Chicago hosted the first nest of peregrines in Illinois in 37 years. Spreyer did his graduate work in Minnesota on great gray owls and then went on to organize and direct Chicago's peregrine falcon release program. Editor's note: This is the first in a series of contributions from naturalist and author Mark Spreyer. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |