Author: Matt Perry

Update for Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Ares reminded us that Woodcock season is still going on. He brought one to the east veranda at 4:44 AM. Of course, Astrid did not want it, so he flew away and stored it somewhere – probably on one of his pantry ledges on the State Building. This incident underscores the persistent presence of Woodcocks on their breeding grounds along the Mohawk River floodplain, where Ares likely hunts them. During their courtship displays, male Woodcocks leisurely circle above the breeding grounds, emitting a distinctive twittering sound, rendering themselves particularly vulnerable to Peregrine attacks. Ares’ preferred hunting technique for Woodcocks remains a mystery—whether he descends upon them with a swift dive (a stoop) or intercepts them in lateral flight. Typically, Woodcocks commence their displays at dusk, extending into the night, before resuming in the predawn hours. It is clear that Ares is proficient at hunting them in the dark.

Update for Tuesday, April 16, 2024

At 5:04 AM, Ares arrived at the nest for the morning shift change. Astrid promptly departed, followed by Ares shortly after. This left the eggs unattended for about 25 minutes, with temperatures hovering in the mid-30s. The reason for both falcons’ absence remained uncertain. Could it be an intruder? Was Astrid out hunting, with Ares either supporting or guarding her? Astrid was seen feeding on the hotel a little later, lending credence to the out-hunting theory. However, speculation was all we had; there was no definitive answer. Nonetheless, prolonged exposure to such cold conditions wasn’t ideal for the eggs, although similar occurrences in past seasons hadn’t resulted in any observable harm. Supporting the intruder theory, Astrid and Ares were compelled to leave the eggs three more times during the day, each instance due to a falcon intruder. Fortunately, each of these latter interruptions lasted no more than a minute.

Update for Monday, April 15, 2024

Lately, Ares has been increasingly eager to take his first turn on the nest. His anticipation drives him to arrive exceptionally early in the morning, though he doesn’t head directly to the nest. Instead, he pauses nearby – on a window ledge or atop a pillar. Ares is keenly aware that Astrid isn’t usually inclined to an early changeover. Upon his arrival, he emits a call that differs from his usual screech – it’s more intricate, drawn-out, and carries a sense of impatience and desperation. This morning, Astrid displayed greater flexibility, allowing Ares to assume his duties at the nest at 4:25.

Update for Sunday, April 14, 2024

Astrid and Ares are about midway through the incubation period. We anticipate the initial hatch occurring around the 33rd day of incubation, placing it in the early days of May.

Update for Saturday, April 13, 2024

Saturday was cold and blustery, with icy rain intermingling with wet snowflakes. The wind was relentless. As usual, the falcons reveled in the gusts, effortlessly soaring into the canyon after their incubation shifts, with no need for wing flapping.

Just like the day preceding it, Ares graciously provided Astrid with a meal. Delivering what appeared to be a blackbird to the long perch, she accepted it gracefully from the crossperch. With her prize in tow, she glided effortlessly to the hotel, where she had her brunch.

Typically, when one falcon remained at the nest, their partner kept a vigilant watch from the State Building, surveying both the nest site and the surrounding territory. Without fail, whenever one falcon departed from their watchful post, the other would emit a brief series of squeaking vocalizations. These calls served as cues for us to promptly check the cameras for any activity unfolding.