Family of peregrine falcons return to cathedral

A family of peregrine falcons have returned to Worcester Cathedral after the birds seemingly rejected the site earlier in the year to nest on.

The mating pair - named Peter and Peggy - have been nesting at the cathedral since 2024, with a live stream tracking their progress.

However earlier this year the stream was shut down when they did not return, with Chris Dobbs, biodiversity advisor at the cathedral, describing 2026 as "very disappointing".

But the team continued to closely monitor the nest and, last week, Peter, Peggy and three healthy chicks were seen using the cathedral as their base for flying and hunting lessons.

The live stream was then restarted with the birds seen on camera most days, usually visiting between 04:00 and 05:00 BST.

The interim chief operating officer at the cathedral, Lynsey Breeze, said: "We are absolutely delighted to welcome our peregrine family back to the cathedral.

"Following the sad events of last year, I am told it is not unusual for them to reject the site the following year. "

In 2025, only three our of four eggs hatched and the trio of chicks all died.

"We really missed them this year, despite regular visits from the adult pair. So, it is just wonderful that they have now decided to come home and bring their beautiful fledglings with them," Breeze added.

"We really look forward to watching them thrive over the coming weeks. This homecoming gives us hope that they may nest here again next season."

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