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
Safe and cozy Photo by Cleve Nash
A little walk Photo by Cleve Nash
Good morning Photo by Cleve Nash
Hi Mom Photo by Cleve Nash
Good to be stretching our legs and feet a bit Photo by Cleve Nash
Exploring and getting ready for the future Photo by Cleve Nash
Let’s go for a walk Photo by Cleve Nash
Now…. Photo by Cleve Nash
Instinct leads the way Photo by Cleve Nash
Nature’s trials can be hard, Bob
those little birdies are so cute! Will they end up as prey for the Peregrine Falcon?
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