03 May 2017

A parent’s work is never done, and it’s no different for the Woking’s peregrine falcons as last week, the eggs began to hatch.

The adults took to their parental duties immediately and from the early hours of Thursday morning, became engaged in the tireless task of bringing food, keeping their tiny babies warm and preening them. Over the bank holiday, the last egg hatched, meaning all five chicks have so far survived.

Last year, in a pioneering project, Woking Borough Council and numerous partners installed the safe, warm nest box, along with a live stream webcam on top of Export House, for the two falcons that had made their home there for a number of years. The plan was to support a successful breeding season, whilst capturing every moment on film.

Birdwatching enthusiast, James Sellen, who has kept a close eye on the birds of prey, said: “The hatching of the eggs, especially of all five eggs, is another huge milestone for the parents but the excitement isn’t over yet. Over the coming weeks, we expect members of the public to be able to witness the parents teaching their growing offspring how to fly, hunt and eventually fledge the nest, to start their own family elsewhere. Lucky locals may even get a live show if they take a few moments to look up as they pass the foot of Export House.”

Cllr Beryl Hunwicks, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment and Sustainability, said: “It is wonderful to know that all of the eggs have hatched and that there are now five chicks in the peregrine nest box.

“As a town, we do so much to ensure the survival and proliferation of some of the UK’s most treasured species. The peregrine falcon story is one of our great successes and it is a privilege that they have chosen our town to rear their family for yet another season.

I am sure that many visitors will be fascinated over the coming weeks as we watch a delightful natural drama unfold.”

To get updates or watch the live footage of the peregrine family as they grow, follow @wokingperegrine on twitter or tune in at www.wokingperegrines.com

The Woking Peregrine Project is supported by partners, including Akiko Design, Arcom IT Support, Woking Borough Council and Woking Shopping, WWF, Nick Dixon and Wildlife Windows. A full list of partners can be found on www.wokingperegrines.com.

For further information, please contact Tracey Haskins, Woking Borough Council’s Green Infrastructure Manager on 01483 743477 or email [email protected]

Article by Woking Borough Council