FALCONS NESTING IN CHURCH SPIRE
A pair of peregrine falcons have set up their winter home at St Wulfram's Church.
A pair of peregrine falcons have set up their winter home at St Wulfram's Church.
And they have become an attraction for bird lovers strolling through the churchyard.
Rector of Grantham, Canon Christopher Andrews said this week they have returned after spending last winter and spring on the 86.2 metre spire.
He said: "We didn't see them at all in summer and autumn but now they have returned. We have to consider closing the tower so we do not disturb them.
"We have found woodcock and teal carcasses in the churchyard so they are enjoying a healthy diet. There was also a sparrowhawk in the churchyard, but they have seen him off. They are a wonderful sight to watch. They are masters of aerobatics."
Once an endangered species, the peregrine is now classed as uncommon. Last year there were an estimated 1,283 pairs in the UK.
RSPB wildlife adviser Darren Oakley-Martin said the bird moves to the south and east during winter and spring, although he was surprised they picked Grantham.
He said: "This is very exciting. They do sometimes pick tall buildings because they replicate cliffs, their natural habitat. They have been persecuted in the past but they are now making a comeback. It is really good news. Teal, which lives in quarries, and woodcock are typical food for them."
But he warned the bird has special protection status under the Wildlife Act and while many birds have their nests protected, even deliberately going too near to a falcon can be an offence.
"Anyone who disturbs these birds could face a 5,000 fine, six months in prison or both. But they are beautiful to watch in flight."
The Journal asked if publicising their new home would be a threat.
Mr Oakley-Martin said: "The more people who are aware of their presence, the better they are protected."
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Weather for Grantham
Sunday 01 August 2010
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 10 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: West
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