The tracking of peregrine falcons born at We Energies power plants this spring has provided researchers with valuable insights into the birds’ migratory patterns. Three fledglings, equipped with tiny location transmitters, have traveled thousands of miles since June, showcasing their movements for the first time.
Recent Travels:
- Gino Falcone: Journeyed from Port Washington to northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula; last tracked in Norway, Michigan.
- Brooke Flighton: Migrated from Oak Creek to various locations including Winnebago, Door County, Clare (Michigan), and was last pinged in Port Elgin, Ontario.
- Lance Talon: Moved south from Milwaukee to areas in Illinois, including Joliet and Chicago, and is currently at McCook Quarry, Illinois.
Technology Insights:
- BlūMorpho Tags: These were installed on all 11 chicks, but eight devices failed early. This technology is only the second use of its kind on peregrine falcons in the U.S.
- Greg Septon, the peregrine falcon manager, notes that ongoing data collection aims to understand young falcon movements until they reach nesting maturity.
Conservation Efforts:
Peregrine falcons suffered severe declines due to pesticide use post-World War II. To aid recovery, We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service have been installing nest boxes at power plants since the early 1990s. They have successfully banded 476 falcons, contributing significantly to the population in Wisconsin.
The continued monitoring of these falcons not only helps researchers understand their behavior but also enriches conservation efforts for this majestic species.
