BOISE, Idaho – The daily life of a Peregrine Falcon family in downtown Boise is once again on view via a web camera that begins a new season today.

The camera is affixed to a nest box on the 14th floor of One Capital Center, 10th and Main streets. The box has been used each spring since 2003. Last year, four chicks successfully fledged from the nest. The webcam may be seen at: www.peregrinefund.org/falconcam

The ledge where the nest box is located simulates the high, steep cliffs the falcons use in the wild. The falcons, which strictly eat other birds, prey on a plentiful supply of pigeons, mourning doves, starlings and other birds downtown.

“We think this might be the same adult pair as last year because Peregrine Falcons have been seen in Boise throughout the fall and winter,” said Idaho Fish and Game biologist Bruce Haak.

The web camera is sponsored by The Peregrine Fund, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, and Fiberpipe. The nest also can be viewed on monitors in the lobby of One Capital Center, courtesy of Oppenheimer Development Corporation and J.R. Simplot Company.

“Right now, people should watch for courtship behavior,” said Jack Cafferty, interpretive center director at The Peregrine Fund’s World Center for Birds of Prey. “The birds will appear to be bowing to each other, make chirping noises, exchange food, and scrape out a depression in the gravel at the bottom of the box where the eggs will be laid.”

Last year, the female laid the first of four eggs on April 16. The first chick hatched on May 25 and the first flight from the nest occurred July 1. The young birds stayed in the downtown area for several more weeks to hone their flying and hunting skills under the watchful eyes of their parents.

For more information, contact:

Erin Katzner
Director of Global Engagement
Main Phone:     208-362-3716
Direct Phone:     208-362-8277