University launches falcon nest livestream

Live footage showing a nesting pair of peregrine falcons high above Birmingham is being streamed, offering a rare close up view of the protected birds and their eggs.

The University of Birmingham has launched the camera at the top of its Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower, known as Old Joe, where four peregrine falcon eggs have already been laid.

The stream allows birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts to follow the nesting process in real time, from incubation through to the possible hatching and fledging of chicks in the coming weeks.

Steve Jordan, the university's director of estates, said it was "heartening" to see the birds return and lay eggs again this year.

He said years of work had gone into making the tower a safe environment for the falcons, adding that the university was "thrilled" to share the results with the public through the livestream.

Peregrine falcons have returned to nest on the university campus every spring since 2013, although sightings date back to the early 1990s. There are thought to be only about 1,800 breeding pairs across the UK.

The birds of prey favour high vantage points in the wild, such as cliffs, making the tower an ideal nesting site. A specially installed nest box has helped support their return over the years.

Zoe Hurley, head of sustainability at the university, said the footage would give people a unique insight into the species without disturbing them.

"The livestream will give people a chance to see peregrine falcon behaviour up close, from hunting and eating their prey, to nesting, incubating their eggs and hopefully the successful hatching and fledging of chicks," she said.

She added that it was a chance for people to learn more about the birds while helping to protect them.

The livestream will be available for members of the public to watch on the university's website and YouTube channel.

To avoid disruption, access to parts of the tower has been restricted while the falcons are nesting.

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