Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) have voted against the proposal to transfer the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) from Appendix I to Appendix II. The International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey regrets this outcome.

The IAF supported the proposal, which reflected decades of scientific evidence demonstrating the species’ strong global recovery – one of the most notable conservation successes of recent times. In October, our Council of Delegates endorsed the official position prepared by the IAF CITES Specialist Group, noting that the proposal met the science-based criteria of CITES Resolution 9.24.

Key indicators clearly supported downlisting:
• the species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List;
• global populations are stable or increasing, with an estimated 250,000 – 480,000 mature individuals;
• no significant international trade pressure exists on wild populations;
• the proposal had the backing of the IUCN, the CITES Secretariat, TRAFFIC, BirdLife International, and other expert bodies.

In the interest of consensus, the IAF also supported a compromise option: downlisting with a zero export quota for wild-taken specimens – an approach that recognised the scientific evidence while ensuring continued protection.

The decision taken at the CoP represents a missed opportunity to align listings with current data and to focus efforts on species that genuinely require support. Nonetheless, the IAF remains committed to evidence-based conservation, constructive engagement with Parties and experts, and the promotion of balanced, science-driven decision-making.

We thank all Parties and partners who worked with us throughout the process. The global falconry community will continue to advocate for the protection and sustainable future of birds of prey worldwide.