How to spot peregrine falcons in Glasgow as experts share tips on seeing birds of prey
One of Glasgow's most heartwarming wildlife stories continues to captivate the city. Peregrine falcons Bonnie and Clyde, along with their surviving chick Victor, are beginning to work up quite a following.
The birds of prey have been monitored closely by the Glasgow Peregrine Project, who hosted public watch sessions at the University of Glasgow this year.
Through a mix of live viewing opportunities and engaging social media updates, the team have helped the public follow the birds' lives from mating through to hatching and early flights, Glasgow Live reports.
The Peregrine Watches are now over for the season and the striking pair are venturing beyond their nest site at the university's iconic Gilbert Scott Building.
But interest in the raptors remains strong, so the project team has encouraged the public to continue spotting and reporting any sightings as the birds explore more of Glasgow.
'Our peregrine family have been venturing into the city centre. This marks a new phase of the peregrine study,' the Glasgow Peregrine Project wrote on social media.
'Monitoring where they go and why, along with what they eat, is really important stuff. Prey assessments continue and ranging behaviour is closely monitored.
"There are a few sites where peregrines from outwith the city appear and take up winter territories. It will be fascinating to see how this picture unfolds as the year progresses.'
The birds are still being observed by the project team, but they are now calling on the public to help keep track of their movements. They said: 'Your records are really important to help build a picture of their movements and how they use the city. Every record is really appreciated!'
To assist in identifying the peregrines, the team has offered some tips. Bonnie, the female, is ringed, which means 'she has a colour ring on her left leg L7 and the right leg a silver BTO ring."
The team added: "During prolonged perching, these rings can often be obscured by the breast, belly and flank feathers. Patience is required while waiting for a leg stretch or move of position,' they explained.
'Bonnie is a full adult, typically plumaged large female. Her dark moustache contrasts nicely with her white cheeks.'
Clyde, the male, is unringed, which makes his plumage markings essential for identification. The team said: "His head markings are unusual with two very clear rusty brown patches on his nape.
'The colouring on his cheeks is not typical either. Instead of the crisp black moustache and white cheeks, his cheeks are diffused with warm brown.'
Their chick, Victor, can be identified by an orange colour ring on his left leg marked 34R, along with a silver BTO ring on the right leg.
Anyone who spots the birds, either with the naked eye or using binoculars, is encouraged to take a photo and send it to the Glasgow Peregrine Project, helping the team track their hunting grounds and behaviour across the city.
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The licensed project team expressed their gratitude for the continued support from the public. They said: 'We are always struck by the positivity and warmth from all who attend.
"This year, thousands of folk from all four corners of the earth visited. It's such an inspirational environment and we loved meeting you all and making new friends.
'From the team, thank you for taking time out of your day to come and say hello and marvel at our wonderful Peregrines. To you all, we really appreciate your support in creating something special for the city.'
For updates and identification guides, the Glasgow Peregrine Project can be followed on Instagram at @glasgow.peregrine.project.
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