At least one peregrine falcon chick has successfully hatched in a rooftop nest, marking a significant milestone for the avian residents of Cambridge city center.
For the past nine years, falcons have made their home on an undisclosed building in the heart of Cambridge. However, this year brought a change, as a new female falcon took up residence and hatched an egg—a development attributed to the absence of the previous female, who tragically fell victim to another falcon.
According to bird watchers, the newly hatched chick is believed to be nearly three weeks old. Simon Clark of Cambridge Peregrines shared insights into the circumstances surrounding the nest’s new occupants, revealing that a female falcon, who had fledged in Wakefield, had found her way to the city and eventually laid the eggs.
“This is probably her first year breeding, and she initially spent lots of time on the university library,” remarked Mr. Clark, shedding light on the falcon’s behavior leading up to nesting.
While it’s confirmed that there is at least one chick, Mr. Clark speculates that there may be two, drawing from past experiences where the full brood wasn’t immediately apparent. He expressed optimism about the chicks’ chances of survival once they’ve mastered the art of flight.
Looking ahead, Mr. Clark anticipates that the young falcons will remain in the city for a few months before dispersing—a natural progression in their journey towards independence and establishing their own territories.
The presence of these majestic birds in the heart of Cambridge serves as a testament to the resilience of nature and the adaptability of wildlife in urban environments. As the chicks continue to grow and thrive, they offer a glimpse into the intricate interplay between human civilization and the natural world, reminding us of the beauty and wonder that surrounds us, even in the most unexpected of places.