New data released by the Iowa Department Natural Resources show the number of peregrine falcons in the state continues to hold steady. Breeding Peregrine falcons disappeared from Iowa in the mid-20th Century. The Iowa Department Natural Resources began a restoration program in 1989, releasing several dozen birds in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines. As of 2003, a total of 169 birds were released in the state – part of a regional restoration effort to spread the falcons back across the Midwest. There were 20 active nests at the end of 2025. The Iowa DNR’s Riggs Wilson calls the peregrine falcon restoration effort a success story.
“Just kind of the intrinsic value of these birds as part of our natural ecosystem,” says Wilson. “And them and the role that they play. They’re a key predator in a natural ecosystem.”
Among the fastest birds on Earth, Peregrine falcons routinely fly at about 60-miles-per-hour and reach speeds of 200 miles-per-hour when diving for prey. They’re currently protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Wilson says the raptors are mostly found in three main areas of the eastern part of the state, close to the Mississippi River.
“So, they’re going to be in your urban environments,” says Wilson. “So, on large buildings. Bridges, that kind of a thing. Mississippi River bluff faces, and then we do have few that nest on energy plant towers.”
Aside from regulatory statutes, Wilson says those tower operators are good stewards of the birds. Some local officials have set up online cameras for the public to see them.
