Big Bird Watch Update From the Mohonk Preserve

There is big news from the Mohonk Preserve this week if you are one of the many people who follow the Peregrine Falcons who call the Gunks home.

Peregrine Falcon Chicks Are Spotted on The Ridge in New Paltz, New York

The Mohonk Preserve confirmed this week that they do indeed have peregrine falcon chicks that have hatched on the ridge. They confirmed the eyases, which is a term used to describe small falcons and hawks that haven't learned to fly. Usually, the term also refers to the young birds still having feathers that are soft and downy.

Get our free mobile app

In a post on the preserve's Facebook page, they shared the areas where the chicks have been spotted and also to the opportunity to remind and thank climbers for respecting the temporary closures in order to protect the peregrines. The temporary climbing and bouldering closures remain in effect for now.

READ More: Rehabbed Bear Returned to Catskill Wilderness

Where are the Peregrine Falcons on The Shawangunk Ridge

The eyases, as they are called, have been spotted on Millbrook Cliff and Bonticou Cliff. They are still watching the Trapps Cliff for signs of chicks, but none have been spotted as of yet.

According to the information they shared, most peregrine chicks will stay close to the nest until around day 40. That is about when most are ready to take their first flight. At the moment, the chicks identified on the ridge are between 16 and 23 days old, so it will be a few weeks before any of them attempt to fly.

As they learn to fly, they will stay near the eyrie and the parents will continue to provide food for them. While not all peregrine falcon chicks may survive to fledging, our Conservation Science team and Peregrine Watch Volunteers will continue to closely monitor the cliffs for any changes or signs of concern. (Mohonk Preserve via Facebook)

 

To follow the chicks' progress and for trail information, follow the Peregrine Watch Update that Mohonk Preserve has posted.