Hard trail…

Observation date: 18 April 2014

Just an update on the nesting Canada geese near the Shell Beach peregrine falcon’s eyrie. Of the six eggs, five have hatched. The next morning the adults left the cliffside nest to the beach and ocean surf 50 feet below. Two of the five followed right after the parents; the other three took their time getting up their courage. Eventually, the other three took their instinctual leap. An hour later, two were spotted lying lifeless on the shoreline, while the other three were seen following the two adults down the beach. You wonder what it is that says to a one day old gosling, “Jump off this 50 foot cliff or you will die if you stay in this warm cozy nest.

First day and instinct leads the way 

Canada Goose and goslings

Safe and cozy                                              Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslings

A little walk                                        Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslings

Good morning                                    Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslings

Hi Mom                                        Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslings

Good to be stretching our legs and feet a bit                                   Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslings

Exploring and getting ready for the future                       Photo by Cleve Nash

 

Canada Goose and goslings

Let’s go for a walk                         Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada Goose and goslingsCanada Goose and goslings

Now….                                                         Photo by Cleve Nash

Canada geese, goslings, Shell Beach

Instinct leads the way                                                 Photo by Cleve Nash

Nature’s trials can be hard, Bob

About Pacific Coast Peregrine Watch

The Pacific Coast Peregrine Watch is here to inform birders, students and all people who are eager to know about these handsome peregrines. We want you to enjoy and be able to use our on-site powerful spotting scopes. We are available to answer your questions about the pair of falcons that have been observed for many years.
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2 Responses to Hard trail…

  1. those little birdies are so cute! Will they end up as prey for the Peregrine Falcon?

    • Pacific Coast Peregrine Watch says:

      Not necessarily. All would be prey for predators . They have various means of protection. Some with camouflage, others with evasive techniques. I have chased a gander with thirteen goslings across a pasture. When I got close, the parent extended her neck and lay down. All the goslings followed suit and it was hard to see them. If there was one that did not do this, he would be the victim of the peregrine. Being so flat, so close to the ground and prostrate, the peregrine does not have a target. Unlike hawks and owls, the peregrines kill is made on the wing, where most hawks and owls land on their prey after overtaking them. Thanks, for your question. I hope this answers it. ~Bob

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