First peregrine falcon chicks of the year hatch in Cleveland

COLUMBUS — The first peregrine falcon chicks of the 2008 season have hatched at the Terminal Tower nest in downtown Cleveland, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife.

More hatchlings at other nest sites across the state are expected within the week, including a nest site in Lakewood.

Success

There are currently 24 pairs of territorial peregrines across the state, with 21 pairs believed to be incubating eggs.

In 2007, 56 peregrine chicks fledged in Ohio from 19 successful nests.

Monitor

In Columbus, where a camera is set up to monitor falcon activity at the downtown Rhodes State Office Tower, “Scout” and “Orville” are incubating a nest of four eggs.

Falcon fans can keep abreast of the pair’s activities by checking the Division of Wildlife’s peregrine falcon page at www.ohiodnr.com/wildlife.

Cameras are also focused on nests in Dayton and Cleveland and can be accessed through links on the falcon page.

The Cleveland Webcam shows the Terminal Tower nest and Ohio’s first falcon chick of the 2008 nesting season.

Disappointed

A nest in Cleves, near Cincinnati, was expected to produce the year’s first hatchlings.

However, the adult female at that site appears to be experiencing possible physical or neurological problems and the nest’s five eggs may be compromised.

Volunteers are continuing to monitor the situation.

Funding

Ohio’s peregrine falcon program is supported by the state income tax check-off program, donations to the Wildlife Diversity and Endangered Species Fund, and sales of the cardinal license plate.

Donations can also be made at www.wildohio.com. License plates may be purchased from local deputy registrars or by calling 1-888-PLATES3.

Matching federal funds are provided through the State Wildlife Grant Program for this project and other wildlife diversity efforts of the Division of Wildlife that target species of greatest conservation need.