Peregrine Falcon Family Training:

I enjoyed watching an adult and 2 juvenile Peregrine Falcons hunting and "playing" north of the Bluewater Bridges Thursday morning. A nesting box installed on the Michigan side of the  westbound span of the Bluewater Bridges has been used by Peregrine Falcons wishing to breed in the area. It is situated 150 feet above the St. Clair River. One year, 4 birds hatched!

I had a "front row seat" to some interesting behaviour as they seemed to be practicing their hunting skills. On at least 2 occasions, one of the falcons grabbed some leaves and twigs from a Poplar tree, flew out over the St. Clair River and dropped the foliage. Then another bird would try to catch it before it hit the water. They weren't very good at securing the catch, and will need more practice! 

In flight manoeuvres!

3 Peregrine Falcons in one picture!! Two are chasing the one holding the leaves.

Time for a rest!