Peregrine Falcon Livestream Starts Early at Worcester Cathedral

The popular annual peregrine falcon livestream from Worcester Cathedral has commenced early this year. Resident falcons, affectionately known as Peter and Peggy, have been observed preparing their nest box, indicating an imminent nesting period. This pair has a five-year breeding record at the cathedral, typically seeing chicks fledge by early June.

The decision to launch the livestream sooner enables the public to follow the complete cycle, from courtship and egg-laying to hatching and fledging. This follows a challenging season last year when, despite four eggs, only one hatched, and three chicks subsequently died within days. Cathedral biodiversity advisor Chris Dobbs expressed optimism for the current season, noting the pair's consistent success in previous years. Last year's stream was interrupted when the last chick showed signs of illness, later attributed to poisoning.

Between 2022 and 2024, Peter and Peggy successfully raised and fledged four chicks annually. A dedicated project team monitors these magnificent birds, renowned for their incredible diving speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when hunting prey.