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Cathedral falcons welcome first egg of the year

Andy Trigg
BBC News, Norfolk
Hawk and Owl Trust A webcam image of a peregrine falcon with its distinguishable yellow beak and yellow talons sat in front of a red egg inside its gravel nest at Norwich Cathedral. The Norwich skyline is in the background.Hawk and Owl Trust
Peregrines have been nesting at Norwich Cathedral since 2009

A peregrine falcon nesting at Norwich Cathedral has laid its first egg of the year.

The Hawk and Owl Trust, which manages the site 75m (246ft) above the ground, said the egg was laid on Friday.

The trust said it expected more in the coming weeks.

Peregrine falcons have nested at Norwich Cathedral since 2009, and are permanent residents throughout the year.

Hawk and Owl Trust A webcam image of single red egg surrounded by gravel. Hawk and Owl Trust
The British Trust for Ornithology says peregrine eggs tend to hatch between 30 and 32 days after being laid

The laying of the egg was captured on the trust's 24-hour live webcam.

Chris Sperring, a conservation officer at the trust, said: "We're thrilled to bring back the live streams this year, giving members of the public a front-row seat to the incredible journey of the peregrine falcons.

"This is a unique opportunity for the public to witness these magnificent birds as they lay their eggs, hatch, and take their first flights."

Getty Images A peregrine falcon in flight staring at the cameraGetty Images
Peregrines mainly feed on medium-sized birds, such as pigeons

Four peregrine eggs were laid at the cathedral last year.

The peregrine is a species of large crow-sized falcon - most recognisable for its yellow talons and beak.

It can travel at more than 200 mph (320 km/h), making it the fastest diving bird in the world.

There are thought to be 1,769 breeding pairs in the UK.

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