Dr. Gord Court And Vinnie The Peregrine Falcon Kick Off

Dr Gord Court and Vinnnie. Photo Sonya Lee

Alumni, students, and nature enthusiasts gathered at Lakeland College’s Alumni Theatre on the Vermilion Campus, June 13 for a captivating presentation by Dr. Gord Court, Ph.D., Provincial Wildlife Status Biologist with Alberta Environment and Parks, Government of Alberta. He was joined by Vinnie, his ambassador peregrine falcon, in a powerful showcase that highlighted the remarkable recovery of the peregrine falcon population in Alberta.

Part of Lakeland College’s Alumni Weekend Celebration, the event was a standout among the opening festivities. Dr. Court’s engaging presentation traced the peregrine falcon’s turbulent history, particularly the population crash caused by organochlorine pesticides such as DDT,and the decades-long conservation initiatives that helped bring the species back from the brink of extinction.

Thanks to these collaborative efforts, peregrine falcons have made an extraordinary comeback. Today, they can be seen nesting on urban skyscrapers like Edmonton’s Bell Tower, along rugged cliffs and riversides across Alberta, and even on the University of Alberta campus, which hosts a live-streaming camera to observe these majestic birds in real time. Their resurgence stands as a beacon of hope in the face of ecological adversity, showcasing the tangible outcomes of science-based intervention.

Adding a dynamic and interactive dimension to the evening, Vinnie took the stage with composure and grace. The trained falcon impressed the audience with the precision and agility that make peregrines some of the most skilled aerial hunters in the animal kingdom. Attendees were treated to an up-close look at the bird, gaining insights into its behaviors, adaptations, and important ecological role.

The presentation concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where guests posed questions about raptor rehabilitation, conservation biology, and the broader challenges facing Alberta’s wildlife. Afterward, Vinnie mingled calmly with the audience, offering a rare opportunity for attendees to take photos or even hold the raptor under expert supervision.

Dr. Court’s deep expertise, paired with Vinnie’s quiet charisma, made for an unforgettable experience. The event not only celebrated Alberta’s avian wildlife but also set a meaningful and spirited tone for the weekend’s alumni festivities, leaving guests inspired by the power of conservation and community.