Four Peregrine Falcon chicks leave nesting site in South Staffordshire
Four Peregrine Falcon chicks have successfully left their nest site in South Staffordshire for the second year running.
Volunteers have been keeping an eye on the birds to monitor their progress – with the protected falcons being watched 24/7.
It comes after criminal gangs were caught shooting or using traps to kill the peregrines and their chicks before 2019, officers say.
And that has led to volunteers from the British Trust for Ornithology, Forestry England, West Midland Bird Club, officers and RSPB keeping a close eye on them.
They have used cameras supplied by water firm smartwater to help them monitor the area 24/7 to ensure the birds were safe.
A spokesman for Staffordshire Police said: "For the second year running, Peregrine Falcon chicks have successfully fledged and safely left their nest site in South Staffordshire.
"Sadly prior to 2019 criminal gangs were shooting or using traps to kill the local nesting peregrines and their chicks.
"Several individuals and groups have been volunteering their time to keep an eye on the nesting site over the last few months.
"We are pleased to share that this year four #PeregrineFalcon chicks have successfully fledged.
"They have been fitted with leg rings so they can be identified, monitored and protected in the future."
Peregrine Falcons, their nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
