This is how it all ended

Well you saw how it all started well this is how it all ended. Well almost, in fact later in the year I found the nest just a short distance away.

There were two youngsters in it. I watched them grow until the day they took to the wing.

A pair of handsome young peregrines. I only wish I was fit enough to visit the site this year.

 

Friendly peregrines

I was watching a peregrine high in a tree when it was joined by another and to my surprise they became very friendly.

They started to make a lot of fuss of each other. 

I had witnessed the start of a pairing. they were two young birds that eventually mated and produced a family. I shall check in the next couple of weeks to see if they are still together.

This happened two years ago.

 

Peregrines at play

Although peregrines sit around much of the time when they move they become extremely active.

This one I  estimated to be doing about 80mph.

They love play fighting and are often seen scrapping in the air.

This one is for adults only.

 I have seen as many as five birds playing together. This activity can go on for hours.

Peregrine nest

As I promised here is some more nest shots. 

As you can see the youngsters were quite happy with my presence.

This pair are from an earlier brood of a previous year.

The  youngsters would wander around the nest ledge the other side of the ravine from me.

One visit Dad landed just a few metres behind me on my side of the ravine I grabbed this shot before he realised I was there.

They often flew close over my head. These photo's were taken a few years ago but I understand the site is still in use.
 

Welsh peregrines

Having made many trips to Wales over about 25 years I learned of many nest sites. This was my favourite hidden in the Elan valley. A river runs through a deep gulley in the side of a mountain and on one side was a nest. It was possible to get within 20m across the river, ideal for the camera. The birds soon got used to my presence and enabled me to get good pictures.

I spent many hours watching these birds dashing past.

They flew over my head and soon got used to me.

It all went well during the winter months and the birds got to ignore me.

 The nest was about 20m below this perched bird so you can see why I visited the spot many times.

More to follow.

Chichester Cathedral

Selection of perches favoured by the peregrines of Chichester Cathedral.

They can be seen clearly during daylight hours

The courtyards are open to the public so photography is unlimited.

Visitors are most welcome and one can sit and enjoy a cuppa whilst watching the birds.

Well worth a visit even on a rainy day.