Peregrine Falcons
2026
Watch the live stream from our Peregrine nest box here.
29 March - First egg laid. 31 March - Second egg laid. 2 April - Third egg laid. 5 April - Fourth egg laid.
7 May - First chick hatched. 8 May - Second & third chicks hatched.
Adopt your very own Peregrine soft toy from our Cathedral Shop
2025
After several years without a resident pair, Peregrine Falcons returned to Ely Cathedral in 2025.
Since 2021, no dominant pair had established themselves. Early in 2025 a new pair of Peregrines settled in, and the excitement quickly followed with three eggs laid in April. All 3 chicks hatched in late May but unfortunately only survived for a few days.
Chick mortality is, unfortunately, common in the first weeks of life due to natural vulnerabilities—limited temperature regulation, weak immune systems, and potential food issues all play a role. The adult falcon’s behavior also suggests she may be a first-time parent. While this outcome is difficult, the adults remain in the area, and we’ll continue monitoring them.
The History of Peregrines at Ely Cathedral
A few years ago, a pair of Peregrine Falcons set up nest on the rooftop of Ely Cathedral. We remained very quiet about their arrival in order to give them a chance to settle in and to see if they were going to nest and make Ely Cathedral their home. We are delighted to say that they did just that!
In 2021 we were honoured to be able to share the journey of the miracle of life that the magnificent Peregrines brought into the world, via a live webcam. The webcam kindly installed by the Hawk & Owl Trust and sponsored by King's Ely, gave everyone the great privilege to view their nesting box and the chance to follow the four chicks daily progress from hatchlings to fledglings. You may be lucky enough to see them flying around the Towers if you visit the Cathedral.
Peregrine Photos: Simon Stirrup
Fun Fact
The name Peregrine means 'wanderer'. They can travel vast distances outside the nesting season but their incredible homing instinct leads them back to their favoured aerial locations! Some nesting sites have been in continual use for hundreds of years, used by successive generations of Peregrines.
Please Note:
We work very closely with the Hawk & Owl Trust to ensure the safety and wellbeing of these protected species. Please help us protect them and their young and note that filming or photography by drone is strictly prohibited.
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