I have been hearing the loud call of a Merlin in my neighborhood lately. I think it is calling for a mate. In April 20i7, I was able to get a photo of them mating. The mating was as loud as the flight display. They mated a few times.

Note how the male gently laid his feet across the back of the female.

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Bird Species in conflict # 10

This is the only shot I have of a Gyrfalcon and a Peregrine together. I was watching the Gyrfalcon perched on the pipe support strut, waiting to see if she would make a move. I saw the young Peregrine come in from the side in time to get this shot. It was over in seconds. The Peregrine did a quick buzz, and flew up. The Gyr stayed perched, and did not pursue it. The Peregrine left the scene.

If you look at the throat area, you will see the Peregrine has a full crop. It must have had a successful hunt farther down the tracks before coming to the terminal. The Gyrfalcon would not permit another raptor of any species hunting on her territory, and had the strength and moves to enforce that if necessary.

Peregrine Falcons were not regular hunters at the terminal. We did not often see them there.

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An archive shot from July 2023 not prevoiously posted.

Tags:   Speyeria aphrodite Aphrodite Fritillary

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Another unposted archive shot for 2023.

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