It was "highly improbable" that two peregrine falcons would lay additional eggs this year following an attack on their nest by a vandale, according to a statement from a wildlife trust.
Eggs from raptors were deliberately smashed At St Albans Cathedral in Hertfordshire on Monday.
The live stream showcasing the birds' nest, active since 2023, was discontinued shortly following the occurrence around 10:30 BST.
The Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust stated that their team was still "deeply disheartened" by the incident.
The birds, named Alban and Boudica, had been anticipating chicks from the three eggs that were laid.
Hertfordshire Police stated they were looking into the incident after footage showed an individual trampling over the nest and crushing the eggs.
Peregrine falcons show fidelity to their nesting location, indicating that the cathedral has become a confirmed spot for reproduction.
The wildlife trust expressed hopefulness that the couple would stay in the region, even though some harm was done.
A statement noted that 'the peregrine pair is highly probable to stay at the cathedral this season,' also mentioning that the birds were observed engaging in mating behavior on Tuesday.
We look forward to seeing a more productive effort to breed again next year. Nonetheless, since they are wild birds, circumstances in nature may vary.
The organization stated that even though the birds have mated, it remains highly improbable that they will produce another set of eggs this year.
A total of 519,882 people viewed the live feed in 2024, with the most popular day falling on 9 May when 12,598 tuned in to observe three recently hatched chicks .
The feeding system was supposed to stay out of service during the police investigation, according to the cathedral.
The Very Reverend Jo Kelly Moore, the Dean of St Albans, commented: "We are deeply saddened by the damage inflicted upon the eggs in our peregrine falcon nest."
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- Falcon eggs were shattered during a live stream from the cathedral.
- Enhanced cameras for the peregrine falcon live feed
- Three falcon chicks emerge in the cathedral nest.
Related internet links
- The Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust
- St Albans Cathedral