Chichester Cathedral’s peregrine falcons are preparing for the forthcoming breeding season and have been sighted regularly from the Cathedral grounds.
Over the years, the peregrine falcons have delighted visitors with sightings from the Cathedral grounds from March until August, and can also be observed virtually through a live-stream on the Cathedral website.
The peregrine project is collaboratively run by Chichester Cathedral, the Sussex Ornithological Society (SOS), Carnyx and local wildlife enthusiasts David and Janet Shaw who have been observing the birds since 2001.
This year, there will be a series of drop-in Open Days run by David and Janet Shaw (all weather permitting) so that visitors will have a chance to watch the peregrines through telescopes, view live footage, and learn more about the birds and their activities. These Open Days will be taking place every day from 13th June - 3rd July 2022 (apart from 16th June), on the Cathedral’s South West Lawn.
David and Janet said:
“We are looking forward to being able to show these magnificent birds to the public again. They will be able to see the juveniles fledging and the adults teaching them new skills. We can also show you a close-up view of the birds using our state of the art digital technology and telescopes.”
A Cathedral spokesperson said:
“We are grateful to all those involved in this project – and particularly David and Janet Shaw who bring such knowledge and passion. We hope our visitors, and those online, enjoy the experience of seeing these amazing birds making the Cathedral their home.”
Peregrines were seen on the tower in the mid-1990s They have been very successful nesting on the Cathedral and have fledged more than 70 chicks since 2001. These magnificent birds of prey can grow up to half a metre in length and have a wingspan of over a metre. They live for 15 to 18 years and are the fastest animals in the world, diving at speeds of just under 250 miles an hour to catch their prey.
If you spot the peregrines, either in person or online, share the moment with us using the hashtag #ChichesterPeregrines on social media.
Camera 1 - On The Nest
Camera 2 - On The Parapet & Turret
Image: Paul Loader