Male Falcon has Paired with a New Female!
The new second-year/ immature female that has paired with the Richmond male. Seen on April 8th at the nest box with her bands clearly visible.
The male of the new peregrine falcon pair has a new female. Observations were made of a new female beginning on April 1st. On April 5th, we were able to verify that the new female is a second-year/ immature bird, based on the streaky markings down her breast and belly. The black over green bands on her left leg read 95/AK and her federal USGS band on her right leg is silver. The silver color of the USGS band illustrates that this bird is from out-of-state (Virginia birds have green USGS bands).
We have observed this new second-year/ immature female and the male in courtship behavior with one another, indicating they have paired. We have reached out to some other biologists to inquire about this bird’s identity and origins and will share the news as soon as we receive it.
This is the second female to pair with the new male this year. The previous female from this year was not banded and had adult plumage, which was very buffy all over.
Update from April 9, 2019: After reaching out to biologists in other states, we have learned that this new female falcon is from Delaware! She was banded by a biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on June 4, 2018 at the St. George’s Bridge over the C&D Canal. Welcome to Virginia, 95/AK!
The new second-year female perched on the Riverfront Plaza building parapet. Seen on April 5th.
The new second-year female perched inside the nest box. Seen on April 5th.