From conservation project to viewing platform
In the 1970s, the peregrine falcon was on the brink of extinction. Two main factors contributed to this:
Direct persecution: Peregrine falcons were often killed or disturbed by humans, both because of their value for falconry and hunting, and because of conflicts with pigeon fanciers. Some breeders poisoned peregrine falcons because they preyed on their valuable racing and breeding pigeons.
Environmental toxins: Another key factor was the use of insecticides such as DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) in agriculture. These chemicals caused peregrine falcon eggshells to become so thin that they frequently broke, leading to repeated breeding failures.
Since 1989, peregrine falcons have once again been breeding at the Bruchhauser Steine, particularly on the Bornstein rock. For more than ten years, their breeding here was documented by the foundation’s falcon watch, using cameras and the dedicated efforts of volunteers who stayed on site in a caravan and guarded the nest around the clock.
Today, constant monitoring is no longer necessary. Instead, the falcon observatory platform invites visitors to watch the cliff face where the falcons often circle. With a bit of luck, you may even spot the nest or see the adults feeding their young.
