Spring and summer is the time of year that young animals make their debut in the world. Fawns, bear cubs and lots of nestling birds can be spotted now in the area. Right now, fledgling eagles can be found along the river and other areas, as well as other raptors.

One bird of prey that is making a comeback in the region is the peregrine falcon. Like the eagle, it suffered significant declines in population during the time that the chemical DDT was present in the environment. Wildlife officials in New York and PA re-introduced peregrines and initiated hacking programs, similar to the bald eagle recovery efforts.

Breeding peregrine numbers have increased in both states, and late last year, PA, having met the goals of its 10-year recovery plan, delisted the peregrine as a threatened species.

Though the breeding-pair count of peregrine falcon pairs is recovering more slowly than that of bald eagle pairs, peregrines are starting to use some of the historic cliff nesting habitats in the region. 

Many of the early restoration efforts concentrated on bridges and building ledges in urban areas, and for many years afterwards, it seemed that the peregrines were favoring urban-area nest sites.

As June arrives, young peregrines are fledging, taking that first leap off the cliff with outstretched wings. Very soon, they gain their airmanship skills,  grabbing food from their parents in mid-air, or engaging with their siblings in mock air combat. This seems like play, but the young peregrines are honing their new skills for when they have to find food on their own and defend themselves, once they leave the protection of their parents.