The short version
- The bird was discovered injured near a medical center, unable to fly or perch properly.
- Rescue organizations collaborated to provide specialized aviary care for flight rehabilitation.
- Staff observed the falcon locating her parents and siblings shortly after release.
A young female peregrine falcon has been successfully reunited with her family following a rescue operation in Nottingham. The bird was discovered on the ground near the Queen's Medical Centre in late June, suffering from injuries that prevented normal flight or perching behavior. Experts noted that finding a grounded peregrine is rare, as these birds typically return to their nests after short fledgling flights rather than landing on the ground.
Brinsley Animal Rescue and Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital worked together to treat the falcon. Because the initial rescue center lacked facilities for flight training, the bird was transferred to a large aviary where she could practice flying safely. Staff members described the rehabilitation process as intensive but necessary to restore her physical capabilities before any potential release.
Upon being released on Thursday, the falcon quickly located her parents and siblings, an event that rescue staff found deeply moving. Jon Beresford of Brinsley Animal Rescue identified the bird as the offspring of a male peregrine previously treated by his organization. He emphasized the privilege of treating such a magnificent species and witnessing its successful return to the wild.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC Science & Environment↗Injured peregrine reunion 'brought tears to eyes'