In a new video released by the MTA, bridge workers are seen inspecting and tagging a dozen Peregrine Falcon chicks that recently hatched atop the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. Falcons and other birds of prey tend to prefer high locations with great visibility for nesting and spotting prey.
Peregrine falcons were nearly wiped out in the 1960s as a result of pesticides in their food supply, and remain on the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation endangered birds list. Urban falcons like to nest atop bridges, church steeples and high-rise buildings because they provide an excellent vantage point for hunting prey, including pigeons and small birds.
Since 1983, the MTA Bridges and Tunnels division has been part of the New York State nesting program.
MTA Bridges and Tunnels provides a nesting box for the falcons at each of the bridges but otherwise leaves the birds alone, particularly during nesting season. Falcons mate for life and generally return to the same nest to hatch their young.
via MTA
Matt Coneybeare
Editor in Chief
Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.
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