Peregrine adult: male taking off!

September 20, 2012 in Near the Clock Tower

While heading north on South Union St. and approaching the lights at Merrimack St., noticed a probable adult Peregrine perched on the NE corner of the New balance building.  It was at the peak of one of the triangular pediments.  Pulled into the store/employee parking lot for a better look.  the lighting was terrific but becoming more overhead just past 9:30 AM.  The peregrine bolted from its perch in a tuck to gain speed.  It headed SE towards the ground on the north side of the Monarch Lofts apartment building.  Moments later it retunred to the NB roof.  All in all, fun to watch the takeoff and speed tuck!  Sequence of photos provides ability to make positive ID on the 6*/4* black over green leg bands on left ankle!  Photos posted online at:

http://www.pbase.com/birdshots/image/146362415  Click “next” in upper right corner to advance frames!

Peregrine adult: Pemberton Mill

September 11, 2012 in Near the Clock Tower

An unexpected delight to find this adult Peregrine perched on a upper loading door sill on the south side of Pemberton Mill.  the morning was warm, bright, and sunny with little wind.  After a stop to look out over the Merrimack from the Duck Bridge on Union Street, noticed a few feathers falling gently from the mill building.  Falling feathers usually merits a further look!  Sure enough, the Peregrine was found on an old loading door ledge just below the roof.  It sat quietly picking apart prey and then started to squawk a bit.  This is yet another new perch location and an unexpected find!