Raptor in TOWN!

Falco peregrinus: World Raptor. The story of the falcons in the town of Marlow, England, through the eyes of the author.

- HELAINE CADMAN

Peregrine Falcons have one of the most extensive distributions of any avian species. They require open areas for hunting; deserts and densely forested regions are unsuitable. Peregrines are still relatively uncommon in many places although assorted manmade structures provide increasing opportunities to become acquainted with these superlative falcons. More people have the chance to see them and, especially, the privilege of watching them consistently for weeks now that they have adapted to breeding in towns and larger cities.

Two years ago, a pair of very capable Peregrine Falcons moved onto the spire of All Saints Church in Marlow, England. They chose an extremely desirable location: the church at the riverfront. To the north is the town centre while to the south is Marlow Lock. The falcons have unrivalled views of the River Thames and the surrounding fields and wooded countryside. With their high-resolution vision, they can see detail which goes unnoticed by mere humans.

The peregrines first bred in 2021. In late March, I watched as they exhibited mating behaviour half a dozen times over a few days. I wondered how the falcons chose different parts of the church for this activity, sometimes on a pinnacle, sometimes on the parapet, as well as on the spire.