Ironton falcons to be banded

Peregrine falcons are doing better than I thought. I wish I could go to this banding; it would be interesting to compare to the eagle banding I observed at Conesville.

IRONTON, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife will be conducting a peregrine falcon banding on Monday, May 16 at the small park located on the Kentuckyside of the Ironton-Russell Bridge.  This event will be open to the public, and offers those who attend the opportunity for an up-close look at peregrine falcon nestlings.

 The event will begin at 10 a.m., and last about an hour.  A biologist will climb under the bridge where the nest is located to retrieve the nestlings.  Once on the ground, Division of Wildlife biologists will outfit the three week old peregrine falcon chicks with state and federal identification bands.  Additionally, blood samples are taken to monitor the genetics and possible contaminants in the birds.  

 This event is weather-dependant; heavy rain, high winds or lightning would be cause for cancellation.  For information contact the Wildlife District Four office at 740-589-9930. 

 The Division of Wildlife has confirmed a total 37 nesting sites throughout Ohio.  Nesting locations include tall city buildings, bridges, steel manufacturing companies, grain processors, and power plants.