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Falcons Nest on Skyscraper: A New Home in Margate
20 Feb
Summary
- Peregrine falcons have established a nest on an 18-story building in Margate.
- A custom-built nesting box was installed to protect vulnerable falcon eggs.
- Peregrine falcons are the UK's largest falcon, capable of 200mph dives.

A pair of peregrine falcons have found a unique nesting site atop Arlington House, one of Kent's tallest buildings in Margate. Environmentalist Nik Mitchell noted the birds' preference for the structure, likening it to a cliff face. He observed that their eggs were previously exposed and damp.
To address this, Mitchell constructed a sheltered nesting box with a gravel base for drainage and protection. This 'Brutalist design' aims to complement the building and provide a safe haven for the falcons to raise young. Access to the roof will be limited during the nesting season.
These falcons are the UK's largest, capable of reaching astonishing dive speeds of 200 mph. Following a decline in the 1960s due to persecution and pesticides, peregrine populations have recovered thanks to improved legislation and protection. They have successfully adapted to urban environments, expanding their range into many cities.




