A few years ago, a rare peregrine falcon was spotted staking out the heights of San Jose City Hall as a potential nesting site; UC Santa Cruz biologists attached a nesting box against the wall. Since then, there’s been a falcon cam here as the birds have made happy use of the box. (Biologists rappel down to tag the babies.) The same female, Clara, has returned every year, bringing a different mate each time. This year’s male was named Esteban Colbert for Stephen Colbert, and it was determined a few days ago that there are three females and one male baby bird in the nest this time.
I love that the fluffy youngsters look big-haired next to their parents at the moment. 60’s hairstyles making a comeback in the bird world! “And the sign said, longhaired freaky people need not apply…” Go peregrines!
Meantime, the City claims to be put out that Stephen Colbert has not lauded them for naming their falcon after him. Nor even mocking them. Stevie, honey, they’re waiting!