A deadly avian flu strain is devastating the beloved Peregrine Falcon population in California's Bay Area.

The virus has jumped to marine mammals, claiming at least 30 elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park.

Biologists tracking nesting sites for decades report a precipitous decline in falcon occupancy since 2022.

Spread via saliva and feces, H5N1 causes lethargy and sudden death in over 400 bird species.

Eating 500 birds a year increases their risk of consuming infected prey, a 'bad lottery ticket' for survival.

In 2022, nearly all sites were full. By 2025, only 36% of nesting territories remained occupied.

This decline is twice as fast as the mid-20th century DDT crisis that nearly caused their extinction.

Reproductive success is still high. Surviving pairs can raise up to four chicks a year to rebuild numbers.

Volunteers from Alcatraz to the Berkeley Campanile are monitoring skies to track survivors.

Recovery depends on the population developing immunity to H5N1 over the coming breeding seasons.

Join the California Peregrine Project to help researchers track and protect these majestic urban predators.