E-Newsletter

Op-Ed

Dear Friends,

I wanted to use this opportunity to highlight a great program that is taking place in South and West Texas. The Peregrine Fund is an organization dedicated to preserving rare birds that are in many cases facing extinction. Founded in 1970, the Fund was originally focused on providing an environment for the Peregrine Falcon to grow their population. The Peregrine Fund's efforts have been hugely successful - in fact, they have completely preserved the Falcon in South Texas. In 2005, efforts shifted to West Texas to implement the same strategy to increase the Falcon population.

Because of these successful efforts the Fund has set their sights on other breeds facing extinction. The cousin of the Peregrine Falcon, the Aplomado Falcon, is one such breed. The Peregrine Fund is now leading efforts in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona to help stop the decline of the bird. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, the Aplomado Falcon has a life-span of 20 years and requires a habitat of open grasslands with scattered scrubs and trees, which the birds do not have right now.

Individuals from the Peregrine Fund come to my office to update me on their progress every year, and bring along a seven-year-old Peregrine Falcon named Stella. Stella is a remarkable bird, and it's such a delight to have the opportunity to see her every year.

I am proud to support the efforts of the Peregrine Fund and appreciate the hard work and dedication these individuals have to preserving the Peregrine Falcon and other birds faced with extinction. These birds help make Texas a unique and beautiful state.

Sincerely,

Kay Granger

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