The Abernethy Bridge—Home to a Peregrine Falcon Family
(Photo: Courtesy of ODOT)
When delivering a significant construction undertaking such as the I-205 Abernethy Bridge Project, a primary objective is preserving the natural environment and safeguarding the wildlife in the project area. In a previous article, we outlined how the project is improving conditions for fish and other aquatic species. Now that spring has arrived, we’re focusing skyward and highlighting what the project is doing to protect local peregrine falcons.
The Abernethy Bridge is home to a nesting pair of peregrine falcons that have made the bridge their home for the past seven or eight years. Falcons have long used the bridge as a perch, but this pair is the first to move in. Perhaps a seemingly unlikely place for the falcons to live, but the Abernethy Bridge offers conditions reminiscent of the birds’ preferred nesting places: hillside cliffs. The bridge columns provide an environment where the falcons are protected and can easily see prey. Additionally, the columns provide a literal jumping-off point for the birds, which can dive more than 200 mph in pursuit of a meal.
How the construction project interacts with species like peregrine falcons is determined by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which makes it generally unlawful to pursue, hunt, take, capture, or kill nearly 1,100 species of migratory birds. To ensure compliance with the Act and other requirements designed to protect the environment, ODOT works with a dedicated team of biologists and environmental agency partners to develop strategies that allow construction to continue while simultaneously accommodating the needs of local species.
Central to the project’s conservation efforts is establishing a dedicated nesting window from March 1st to August 1st. This safeguard shields nesting birds and their fledglings from potential disruption. During the nesting window, tree, bush and shrub removal are largely prohibited, which minimizes disturbing wildlife. Should the need arise for tree or root removal during the nesting window, biologists meticulously survey the area, thus ensuring the safety of nesting birds before proceeding with any work. ODOT and its environmental agency partners also regularly monitor the birds using cameras.
ODOT biologist Dan Keller highlights the project’s significance in protecting the falcons and other species: "We are privileged to steward a nesting pair of peregrine falcons, historically occupying piers 6 and 7. Last year, they successfully reared two chicks at Pier 6. We are monitoring their previous nest site and anticipating their potential relocation to Pier 7 this year.” The presence of these birds reminds us how important it is for infrastructure to work in concert with nature. As the project transforms the Abernethy Bridge, the team is doing all it can to ensure the upgraded bridge continues feeling like home for the falcons.
(Photo: courtesy of Getty Images)