As the countdown to the World Cup intensifies, four peregrine falcon chicks located high in the rafters of Toronto’s BMO Field are preparing to spread their wings. With just weeks to go before the tournament kicks off, stadium officials have engaged wildlife specialists to ensure the safety of these magnificent birds and the workers setting up for the event.
Nesting Challenges at BMO Field
The peregrine falcon chicks, known for their remarkable speed and agility, are at a critical stage in their development, ready to take their first flights. However, their protective parents pose a potential hazard to the crew tasked with setting up lighting and sound equipment for the World Cup matches.
Dan Frankian, a seasoned wildlife falconer and founder of the bird control company Hawkeye, has been called upon to manage this delicate situation. With a wealth of experience, Frankian quickly assessed the scenario and opted against relocating the nest, a move that could have complicated matters further. “Why do we bother doing all the nest removal, moving all this, moving all that, and then having to find a different spot?” he remarked, emphasising his preference for a protective approach.
Instead of uprooting the nest, Frankian deployed nets and other safety equipment to create a safe working environment. His methods are tailored to the behaviour of the birds, which he closely observes as they navigate their new world.
The Behaviour of Peregrine Falcons
Peregrine falcons are notoriously vigilant parents. David Bird, an emeritus professor of wildlife biology at McGill University, noted that even after the chicks fledge, the adults remain highly defensive of their territory. The young falcons still rely on their parents for sustenance as they learn to hunt and fly, often perching nearby and waiting to be fed.
Bird shared that anyone venturing near the chicks during this time could expect a loud response from the falcons, who may even dive towards perceived threats. He explained that each falcon has a distinct personality; some may become aggressive, while others may simply choose to flee.
The choice of nesting site within the stadium’s rafters does not surprise Bird. Peregrine falcons are adaptable creatures that prefer nesting in high places, often selecting cliffs near water bodies. Urban environments, with their steel and glass structures, resemble natural cliffs and provide ample food sources, including pigeons and seabirds. Moreover, the hustle and bustle of city life helps deter natural predators, such as great horned owls.
Conservation Efforts and Community Support
The resurgence of peregrine falcons in Canada is a remarkable conservation success story. After suffering dramatic population declines due to the widespread use of the pesticide DDT in the mid-20th century, rigorous conservation efforts have helped restore their numbers. The chemical caused thinning eggshells, leading to decreased hatching success. Fortunately, the ban on DDT in North America by 1990 has facilitated the recovery of these iconic birds.
Sally Williams, a volunteer with the Friends of Canadian Peregrine Foundation, is actively involved in helping fledgling falcons. She recalls the first attempts at flight as a clumsy affair, often resulting in young birds landing on the ground, vulnerable to the perils of their urban surroundings. “The first flight is a very clumsy, slow flap, flap, flap, and then they come to the ground. We put them back up high,” she explained. The foundation monitors multiple nesting sites throughout the Greater Toronto Area, ensuring the safety and tracking of these magnificent birds.
The City of Toronto maintains oversight of peregrine falcon activity at BMO Field, collaborating with conservation authorities to implement safety measures for both the birds and the stadium workers. Meanwhile, FIFA has confirmed that their wildlife policy was adhered to during this period, although details remain undisclosed.
A Successful Outcome
With the chicks now having successfully fledged, they will soon be seen soaring across the city as they hone their hunting skills. Frankian expressed satisfaction with the outcome: “Nobody got hurt.” His dedication to wildlife extends beyond mere profession, rooted in a deep passion for birds of prey. “Anything they die of, we die of,” he noted, highlighting the interconnectedness of all species.
Why it Matters
The successful management of these peregrine falcons at BMO Field underscores the importance of wildlife conservation in urban settings. As cities continue to expand, the coexistence of nature and human activities becomes increasingly vital. The efforts of dedicated conservationists, coupled with community support, not only protect these remarkable birds but also serve as a reminder of the delicate balance we must maintain to ensure a thriving ecosystem.
