Norwich Cathedral peregrine falcon chick flies the nest
Wildlife watchers have cause for celebration as a Peregrine Falcon chick took its first flight last night
Wildlife watchers are celebrating as a Peregrine Falcon chick took its first flight last night (18 June) from the Norwich Cathedral spire - an exhilarating moment that quickly turned into a rescue mission watched by thousands.
The first of the fledglings took to the skies yesterday evening after a clutch of four eggs was laid in late March.
Since Peregrines first began nesting at the Cathedral in 2009, a total of four eggs have been laid, with one of the two remaining healthy chicks fledged to date.
The fledgling’s first flight was witnessed by thousands of conservationists and bird enthusiasts worldwide via 24-hour live-stream nest cameras, set up by national bird of prey conservation charity the Hawk and Owl Trust in partnership with Hawke Optics.
After fledging from the nest at approximately 6:40 pm, unfortunately the young peregrine landed on the ground but managed fly up to reach the first-floor ledge.
A decision was made to retrieve her and return her safely to the bell tower.
Liberty Wells, Outreach and Conservation Ranger at the Hawk and Owl Trust, commented, “It’s always remarkable to witness the moment Peregrine Falcon chicks take to the skies for the first time. When we believe intervention is necessary to support a young peregrine’s survival, we will not hesitate to act. Last night was a true team effort to ensure the chick’s wellbeing, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who contributed their support. From our Watchpoint at Norwich Cathedral, visitors have been able to follow their first weeks of life building up to this point. With over 74,000 people already tuning into the live nest camera and hundreds of visitors to the Watchpoint this year, it’s clear that these birds have captured the imagination of the public once again.”
The Watchpoint trailer is parked outside of Norwich Cathedral on the close green and will be open from 10am to 4pm, three days a week throughout June.