Observing the peregrines through the New Balance Falcon Cam under overcast skies, wind from NW around 3 MPH, and temp in low forties.  The female is moving around slowly with very low energy.  Some times she just sits inside the box on the gravel with little or no movement….all part of getting ready!

LETHARGY: Just before and during the period of egg laying (approximately eight days for four eggs) the female becomes lethargic. She can look “dumpy”, including fluffed-up feathers while perched, hanging her vent feathers (the feathers in front of the cloaca, underneath the tail) to an unusual degree, leaning slightly forward while perched, waddling when walking, dozing with one or both eyes closed for long periods, and generally remaining near the nest and being inactive. She might also spend considerable amounts of time in the nest by herself. After laying an egg, she may have periods of being more active, but lethargy is a general demeanor to note. Those without much previous experience with Peregrines should be aware it is comparative and subjective.

Literature Cited:

Cade, T. J., J. H. Enderson and J. Linthicum. 1996a. Guide to Management of Peregrine Falcons at the eyrie. Boise, ID: The Peregrine Fund, Inc. (Excerpt: Linthicum, Janet. Observing Breeding Behavior)