Four Falcons’ Fantastic Fledging
The American Kestrels have fledged, taking their first, feverish flutters from the box! As the fledglings continue to build strength on the wing, their initial flights will look more like a ‘flutter-glide’ rather than the deep wing beats of their parents. But the young kestrels’ pep and determination will likely ensure they’ll master the skies in no time—even though they can flap their wings, their personalities remain as unflappable as ever. From performing exaggerated head-bobbing and tail-pumping movements to pouncing on various objects (watch out, butterflies!), the hyperactive fledglings have shown just how much energy they have for the next phase of their adventure!
A New Way to Fledge: When all three of your siblings fledge on the same day, you’ll do whatever it takes to not be left behind. Determined to follow its brothers, the rather reluctant fourth chick took an alternative approach to leaving the nest, emerging from the box and bravely scaling the wall of the barn before disappearing from sight.
Thanks to our partners at the Raptor Resource Project and to all the viewers for an amazing and successful season on cam. We're already looking forward to next year!
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