In Hertfordshire there are thought to be five breeding pairs of Peregrine Falcons - in St Albans, Watford, Hemel Hempstead, Welwyn Garden City and Wymondley.

Since 2022, a pair have bred high up on St Albans Cathedral and over the last two years four chicks have successfully fledged the nest. In 2023, a webcam was set up to provide us with live footage of the birds’ antics on the nest tray and this has given us all some wonderful insights – with 378,000 views last year, it’s great to see how many people have taken these birds to their hearts! Now, as we wait to see what the future holds for the further three eggs that have been laid this spring, you can find out all you want to know about these majestic falcons through the questions and answers below:

What do Peregrines look like?

Peregrines have broad, pointed wings and a relatively short tail. The birds are blue-grey above, with a blackish top of the head and an obvious black ‘moustache’ that contrasts with its white face. Males are smaller with dashes on the wings and a clean, white breast. Females are much larger, heavily barred on the wings with flecking on the white breast.

Where do Peregrines breed?

Peregrines nest in high, out-of-the-way spots such as cliffs (or cathedrals!). The birds mate for life and will return to their nest sites year-on-year.

What is the status of Peregrines?

Peregrine numbers reached a low point in the 1960s due to human persecution and the impact of pesticides in the food chain. Improved legislation and protection has helped the birds to recover and their numbers are increasing – there are now approximately 1750 breeding pairs in the UK. Peregrines are a schedule 1 species, protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and disturbing them is a criminal offence. However, they are still persecuted - birds are illegally killed to prevent predation on game birds and racing pigeons. Eggs and chicks are also stolen for collections and falconry.

How fast is a Peregrine?

When in full stoop (diving after prey) a Peregrine can reach speeds of over 200mph making it the fastest recorded animal on earth. Special adaptations in this bird’s nostrils enable it to reduce the change in air pressure experienced at this speed so that it can breathe.

Are Peregrines migratory species?

Peregrines across the world do seem to migrate to reach different climates, however in the UK they appear to stick around.

What do Peregrines eat?

The most common prey item is pigeon, however, they do prey on a wide variety of other bird species too, from smaller birds such as finches and wrens to larger birds such as ducks and magpies.

How do Peregrines tend to their eggs?

Peregrines usually lay a clutch of 3 - 4 eggs. After the first egg is laid, the others will be laid at intervals of around two days per egg. Don’t worry if you see eggs left alone, it is only once the third egg is laid that the female will fully incubate them although the Peregrines will stay close to the nest site and protect the eggs from predators in the meantime. The male will also take his turn to sit on the eggs, whilst the female hunts for prey. The eggs will hatch around one month after they are laid. If they are successful (sometimes eggs are infertile or do not hatch).

Will the chicks be left alone on the nest?

At times, the chicks may appear to be left by themselves but the parents will be nearby to provide food and protection. There will also be times when the birds are out of sight, particularly so when seeking shelter from extreme weather.

When will the chicks fledge?

A young bird that has just left the nest has fledged. When it is still in the area and flying it is known as a fledgling. The young fledge between 35-42 days after hatching.

How do the chicks learn to catch their own prey?

Adult Peregrines will withhold food items and encourage the fledglings to take longer flights. At this time, the adults will drop prey in mid-air for them to catch in a food pass. Leaving their parents is gradual and spread over several weeks, during which time they gradually learn to fend for themselves. The adults will continue to feed them until they disperse naturally. There is no evidence that the adults drive juveniles away – it is likely that they will detach themselves from the parents as instinct dictates.

Where can I find more information about birds of prey?

Our website has lots of information about birds of prey and other local wildlife. Plus, you can sign up to receive our monthly e-news straight to your inbox and be the first to find out about events, seasonal highlights and great places to explore in the region – just head to our homepage here.

You are welcome to come along to the free Peregrine Watch events, which we are holding in collaboration with the St Albans Local RSPB Group, within the grounds of St Albans Cathedral over weekends throughout spring and summer. Get a close up view through telescopes and binoculars, which will be provided. Find a schedule of these events here.