One Species Recovered, More Work to be Done

The peregrine falcon population in Nova Scotia has successfully recovered. However, more work needs to be done. Five other species are being added to the province's list of species at risk.

Peregrine falcons can now be found nesting on cliffs along the Bay of Fundy. This was not always the case, no nesting peregrine falcons were observed in Nova Scotia from 1955 to 1995.

"I am encouraged by the interest and concern that Nova Scotians show for species at risk," said Natural Resources Minister David Morse. "To ensure their survival, we need to continue to work together, on both Crown land and private land. Downgrading the risk status of the peregrine falcon shows what we can accomplish together."

This threatened species was re-assessed and down-listed to vulnerable status, based on the results of recovery efforts in Nova Scotia and across Canada. Surveys in Nova Scotia show a healthy population of peregrines for the past 10 years. It remains on the vulnerable list because it is still too early to conclude that the bird is no longer threatened.

Three birds and two plants are being added to the province's list of species at risk.

• Red knot, a medium-sized shorebird, has declined in Canadian population by 70 per cent over the past 15 years. The birds in Nova Scotia show similar trends and will be listed as endangered.
• Chimney swift and common nighthawk, two aerial insect eating species, are being listed as endangered and threatened respectively.
• Ram's-head lady slipper, a small orchid in open forests is now found in only six locations throughout the province. The orchid will be listed as endangered.
• Rockrose, a herb with showy yellow flowers, of which only about three per cent of their potential habitat remains in Nova Scotia. This herb will also be listed as endangered.

A total of 41 species are now listed under the Endangered Species Act in Nova Scotia.

The status of these species is assessed by the Nova Scotia Species at Risk Working Group, a group of science experts, independent of government.

Federal and provincial legislation helps protect threatened and endangered species by prohibiting activities that could disturb or destroy the species or their habitat. The act includes fines for people caught harming species or their habitat.

For more information on species at risk in Nova Scotia go to: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/biodiv/specieslist.htm .