INDIANA – The peregrine falcon, a Species of Special Concern, makes its home here in Indiana, among other states.
Every year, Indiana DNR ornithologists band falcon chicks to help track and recognize individuals. These chicks are often named after famous astronauts and aviators because Peregrine falcons are the fastest raptors in the world.
Along with banding, the Indiana DNR continues to install Peregrine falcon nest boxes in their nesting habitat. Before nest boxes were installed, peregrine falcons would seek out cliffs for nest sites because they prefer to nest high in the air. Having these boxes available not only provides a safe place for adult falcons to raise their young but also helps ornithologists safely monitor chicks.
One nest box overlooks Monument Circle in Indianapolis. This year, a chick from that site was named ‘Bean,’ after astronaut Alan Bean.
In 2022, Indiana recorded eight successful nests and 25 fledglings. With the added nesting space the boxes provide, DNR hopes the urban raptor population numbers continue to increase so Indiana residents can enjoy this lively bird for years to come.
