Birds of Prey advice.

OK, this is a 2 barrel post.

Firstly, I am definitely in Peregrin Falcon territory here. I have seen one every now and then, and today I heard a strange screech above me as I worked in my garden. 2 males were having a mid-air fight (and my camera was inside of course!). Anyone savvy enough to know how best to track down where the nesting area might be? Or do Peregrins have a very large territory?

Secondly, I'm taking the youngun' to the Healesville Sanctuary tomorrow, and I'm really looking forward to using the gear at the Birds of Prey exhibit and show. Does anyone have any advice for this show?

Hi Dale. I've done some work with tracking down Peregrine nests in the UK for the RSPB. The best and only reliable way is to watch the birds and get to know their habits. I'm sure the breeding season in Australia is different than the UK and I don't know what stage you would be at - nest building, laying or feeding, but it is a bit of a giveaway to watch the birds taking material or food to a regular site. If the bird is incubating eggs it is harder to locate the nest because there is less activity to and from the site.

UK peregrines build nests on cliff faces and (occasionally) tall buildings and so we can ignore trees and the like.

Be careful not to disturb the nest though - peregrines will adandon the nest if they feel threatened or disturbed.