One warm sunny day and everything starts happening. Breeding is nearly in full swing. About three times within a four hour period on their arrival to the “rock,” the south side falcons flew into the diving board eyrie and spent some time in the back not visible to the three of us watching intently. After about five minutes, the tiercel (male falcon) appeared on the diving board, with a short jump, he was airborne and off around the face of Morro Rock. A short time later, the falcon (female falcon) did almost the same, but flew to the “chimney” and perched. Within a few minutes, the tiercel returned with prey. She spotted him incoming from the west over the water as she flew from the chimney which alerted us to see him. They were converging on the eyrie from opposite directions. The female landing first, one second later, the male landed. Before he got his balance she had taken the prey from him and was back on the “chimney” plucking. While she ate, he chased vultures. She left the prey after a few bites and then left it for him to finish. For the last few days, they have been standing a few inches apart with up and down head movement almost like they were talking. I wish I knew what they were saying.
Also, today, the vultures are around their old nest site landing behind the rock where last year’s chick “Spec” (see story dated: Tuesday, August 7, 2012 ) was first seen. I have not seen any coupling yet, but I will keep on top of it.
The next four or five weeks will be prime time for the falcons as they will be at the height of the breeding season and do not leave “the rock” much!
Happy trails, Bob
Great photograph. Love reading your newsletter on the current activities of the falcons.
Thanks, Pam. It makes a huge difference when we know you’re out there! Another post coming up later today…Heather