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Vermont's hikers and climbers can freely return to the cliffs this weekend, now that peregrine falcon nesting season has come to an end,
Cliffs are set to reopen Aug. 1, as the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department confirmed that all young falcons have learned to fly and should be undisturbed by human presence, according to a July 27 news release.
Peregrine falcons were removed from Vermont’s Threatened and Endangered Species List in 2005, according to the news release. Ongoing monitoring efforts and cooperation will help ensure a continuation of the species' recovery into the future.
Nesting data suggest Vermont has had a successful year for falcons fledglings, but a final report will be issued later this year, said Vermont Fish and Wildlife's migratory bird biologist Doug Morin. Their nesting success was possible thanks to several factors, such as good weather and respectful hikers and climbers who have kept their distance.