Did what I thought would be my final breeding Peregrine survey of the year earlier this morning.
The main, established, pair have had a good season. Mum was sitting on the edge of the nest site when Dad departed on a hunting trip. Meanwhile the three youngsters were having a ball chasing each other, honing their flying and hunting skills. It was a most enjoyable hour just watching them chase each other.
The newcomers, just 2km up the road had not given away their nest site on my previous visit. This morning it took me almost 20 minutes before I finally found the nest. Unlike the main pair, there was no mass of white below to give the location away. It was a change of viewing location/angle and a downy white chick that eventually gave the nest away. Strange to see this pair with a chick that looked about 10 days - 2 weeks old when the first pair's youngsters are flying. I thought a second chick was present but the angle didn't help, so another visit in a couple of weeks is on the cards.
The main, established, pair have had a good season. Mum was sitting on the edge of the nest site when Dad departed on a hunting trip. Meanwhile the three youngsters were having a ball chasing each other, honing their flying and hunting skills. It was a most enjoyable hour just watching them chase each other.
The newcomers, just 2km up the road had not given away their nest site on my previous visit. This morning it took me almost 20 minutes before I finally found the nest. Unlike the main pair, there was no mass of white below to give the location away. It was a change of viewing location/angle and a downy white chick that eventually gave the nest away. Strange to see this pair with a chick that looked about 10 days - 2 weeks old when the first pair's youngsters are flying. I thought a second chick was present but the angle didn't help, so another visit in a couple of weeks is on the cards.
Martin, when you have a chance could you give me a quick ring please on 01656 730164 re; Peregrines. Many thanks Colin (SWPMG)
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