One of the four peregrine falcon chicks born last month atop the UC Davis Medical Center died Tuesday morning after striking a window. The falcon, the largest of the three females, died instantly. The California Raptor Center will recover the bird for study.
Since their mother laid the eggs, the falcons have drawn attention across the Sacramento region. Their early days were closely followed by local residents and bird enthusiasts alike, who celebrated the rare urban nesting site. Though window collisions are a common hazard for young birds learning to fly, the loss remains heartbreaking.
Of the three survivors, the only male has successfully taken flight and left the nest. Among the two remaining females, one has flown but landed on the ground; UC Davis Health staff intervened to return her safely to the nest. The team will continue to monitor the falcons’ development and support their transition to independence.
Experts note that such incidents highlight the dangers urban environments pose to wildlife, especially young birds navigating new challenges. Despite the risks, the falcons’ presence atop the medical center offers a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate wildlife thriving in unexpected places. Efforts to protect these birds will continue as they adapt to their surroundings.
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