ST. LOUIS (March 18, 2021) – Ameren Missouri, in partnership with World Bird Sanctuary and Missouri Department of Conservation, is bringing back its live Falcon Cam feed of a pair of Peregrine falcons nesting at the Sioux Energy Center. Viewers can watch as the eggs prepare to hatch, likely in early April.
This year, there is even more reason to celebrate, as Peregrine falcons may soon be removed from Missouri’s endangered species list.
“We’re thrilled to see that the fastest wildlife species on the planet is once again thriving in Missouri, after nearly disappearing in the 1960s,” said Sarah Kendrick, state ornithologist, Missouri Department of Conservation. “We know of 14 pairs of Peregrine falcons that are breeding in the state today, and 222 chicks have hatched in Missouri since 2013. This is a huge success for falcon conservation.”
Instead of building nests, falcons lay eggs in cliff hollows, bare rocky outcrops or tall building ledges. The Sioux Energy Center in St. Charles County has long been a favorite for falcons, and Ameren Missouri set up a nesting box at the building to protect the eggs and newborn chicks. Falcon Cam provides a live feed of the box so viewers at home can watch the eggs hatch and see the new chicks grow and develop.
“Falcon Cam is always a favorite time of year for us,” said Kevin Kersting, manager of technical services at Ameren Missouri. “Watching the falcons go through the stages of laying eggs and raising their young has always been popular, and last year we had more viewers than ever before because so many of us were spending more time at home and looking for ways to connect with the outside world. We’re excited to once again give people the opportunity to see nature up close.”
Over the next few months, the pair of falcons will alternate incubating the eggs, then once they hatch, they will take turns caring for the chicks and gathering food. The chicks will begin to fly about 42 days after hatching but will remain dependent on their parents to learn how to hunt for several more weeks.
“We’re pleased to see that the Peregrine falcon population is growing, but the work to protect these birds must continue,” said Jeff Meshach, deputy director, World Bird Sanctuary. “Being able to observe the falcons’ behavior up close provides even more insight into how we can protect and preserve them, as well as the opportunity to educate others about the species.”
CLICK HERE to watch the live feed from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. (CDT) seven days a week or until the chicks have left the nest, typically in late May.
Peregrine falcon facts:
About Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 132,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.
About World Bird Sanctuary
In 1977 WBS was founded by the late Walt Crawford, and is currently directed by Dawn Griffard. WBS is dedicated to the preservation of all birds and their habitats, and accomplishes this through rehabilitation, education, propagation, field studies, advocacy and services. WBS has been banding Peregrine Falcons since 1985. Through captive breeding and release efforts in the mid to late 80's, WBS is responsible for bringing the Peregrine back to Missouri as a breeding species.
About Missouri Department of Conservation
MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources. We also provide opportunities that enable you to enjoy those resources. MDC helps Missourians discover and learn about nature.
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