By Mary Anne McDougall
Once widely distributed in the Ontario wilderness, Peregrine Falcons disappeared due to exposure to pesticide DDT. Breeding programs began in 1977 introducing six hundred captive-raised juveniles. They have adapted very well to urban life where cities with tall buildings replicate the cliffs usually used for nesting. An adult Peregrine Falcon was identified in downtown Hamilton in 1994 and the following year a pair were discovered nesting on a south facing ledge of the Sheraton Hamilton Hotel 18 floors above busy King Street West. In what is known as nest fidelity the site has been home to many different pairs. With its location and easy access to prey (i.e. pigeons) it is a prized location for an urban pair of Peregrines. Territorial battles have displaced older or weaker adults over the years.
McKeever and Judson began their fifth season together with the first egg appearing on 22 March 2026 and over the next few days McKeever laid three more eggs with the final one evident on 29 March. Peregrine Falcons incubate the eggs for approximately 35 days, so we can expect to see chicks in early May.
The Hamilton Peregrine Community Project and Falconwatch monitor the nest site with a live webcam. Information is available on the website detailing the history of the Sheraton nest site. Current news and updates will be posted there. Banding will take place at about 21 days after hatching and will be live streamed on our Facebook page, Hamilton Falconwatch (Official Group).
Peregrine Falcons will develop flight feathers by about five weeks, taking their first flights at approximately 40 days of age. Falconwatch volunteers position themselves around various locations downtown to monitor the chicks. Initial flights can be hazardous for these young falcons as they navigate the tall buildings and develop the skills necessary to land and take off successfully. Last year four Peregrine Falcons eventually fledged successfully after an eventful Falconwatch involving five rescues.
Hamilton Falconwatch will begin our “Feet on the Street” watch in early June. For more information on volunteering or donating please visit our website. A volunteer Orientation session will be held in May (TBA). No previous experience is necessary. Binoculars will be provided.
