2007 Peregrine Falcon Web Cam
Back to 2008 FalconCam

Peregrine Falcon Web Cam - 2007 (Archived)

June 22, 2007
The falcon chicks have moved away from the alcove and are beginning to wander up and down the ledges of the building. They are thriving and are getting more exercise in preparation of flying in another 7-10 days.

June 25, 2007
We will be seeing less and less of the young at the nesting ledge as they are more and more on the wing. Incredible aerial displays will develop into mock combat fights as the young improve their agility in flight. One of the best places to see it all is from the top level of any packing ramps within the American Republic Insurance Building neighborhood downtown.

June 29, 2007
On 06/28/07, DNR Wildlife Diversity Program technician Pat Schlarbaum received a call from American Republic Insurance employee Dallas Roper. Dallas had picked up what was assumed to be an adult Peregrine Falcon on the ground, possibly injured, in downtown Des Moines. The falcon was checked by Dr. Dennis Riordan, D.V.M., Ankeny, who provides volunteer care for peregrines in the Des Moines area. After determining it was unharmed, Schlarbaum, by phone from Boone, directed the bird be delivered to the roof of the parking ramp on Grand Avenue, near the State Capitol. There Dallas Roper, DNR Deputy Director Liz Christiansen, and Wildlife Diversity Program Coordinator Doug Harr attempted to release the falcon, which refused to fly.

Upon photographing the bird and checking a leg band number (see photo) it was recognized to be a young female hatched earlier this spring, along with 3 male siblings, from a nest atop the American Republic Building. The falcon's large size and a band number had not yet been entered into DNR's falcon database and resulted in officials' early confusion about its origin. Young falcons grow extremely fast, and females are 1/3 larger than males, so the youngster was not immediately recognized as from the local nest. It has since been returned to rejoin its siblings and parents at American Republic. DNR wishes to acknowledge the continued assistance of both American Republic Insurance and Dr. Dennis Riordan for their dedication to the successful reintroduction of Peregrine Falcons in Des Moines.

HELP - FalconCam coverage comes at a higher price than previous years, at a time when budgets are tight. The Wildlife Diversity Program (WDP) gets no state general fund money and operates entirely on donations directly to the program or through donations to the Fish & Wildlife Trust Fund (the Chickadee Checkoff) on state tax forms. Unfortunately, Checkoff revenues provide less than half of what it takes to keep the WDP running.

It is hoped those who enjoy the FalconCam will come through with some direct donations to the WDP so that the service can be continued in 2008 and beyond. Your donations do make a difference. If you can, please contribute to the Wildlife Diversity Program.

Donations can be sent to:
Wildlife Diversity Program, 1436 255th Street, Boone, IA 50036
or contact Pat.Schlarbaum@dnr.iowa.gov