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Cathedral-Born Peregrine Falcons Spotted Across UK Counties
15 Oct
Summary
- Two peregrine falcon siblings born at St Albans Cathedral in 2023 spotted in different counties
- 70% of peregrine falcon offspring don't survive first winter, but these birds have shown resilience
- Cathedral's falcon parents have produced 10 chicks since 2022
In a remarkable display of resilience, two peregrine falcon siblings born and raised atop St Albans Cathedral in 2023 have been spotted in different counties across the UK. The male falcons, named VAT and VCT, have ventured out from their cathedral home, with VAT spotted about 76 miles away in Northamptonshire and VCT spotted 58 miles away in Hampshire.
This is a significant achievement, as a wildlife charity has noted that typically, 70% of peregrine falcon offspring do not survive past their first winter. However, the St Albans Cathedral peregrines have defied the odds, with their parents, Alban and Boudica, producing a total of 10 chicks since taking up residence at the cathedral in 2022.
The cathedral's live camera feed project, run in partnership with the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, has allowed the public to follow the falcons' antics. Earlier this year, a number of the birds' eggs were destroyed, but the parents responded by laying an "unusual" second clutch, which resulted in three healthy chicks hatching in June.
The successful dispersal of the 2023 chicks, VAT and VCT, is a testament to the resilience and determination of these remarkable birds of prey. Their journey into the wider world serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the beauty and resilience of the natural world.
