"The Trials of a City Dwelling Peregrine Falcon" – Chris Tynan

This talk by Chris, leader of the Liverpool RSPB, was eagerly anticipated by members who have heard his previous tales, and he again delighted us with a view of life for the Peregrine Falcon family who have taken up residence on the tower of the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.

The result of such as pesticide bans has played a major part in the recovery of breeding pairs in the UK from a low of 350 in 1982, to the last census of 1700 pairs in 2014, with a higher yet total expected next survey.

This remarkable bird, the male a third smaller than the female, is capable of 175mph when diving for its prey, which varies from pigeons, waders and in London particularly, green parakeets.

Amongst many wonderful photographs, Chris showed us video sequences of the parents feeding their four chicks on their ledge, which is carefully cleaned and refilled with pea grit by RSPB workers, who also ring the young birds so that tracking is enabled.

This was an outstanding talk, made even more interesting by Chris’ way of illustrating an array of facts and features of his subject with great wit and warmth. We look forward eagerly to his next visit.