Frequently Asked Questions

When will the falcons start fledging?
The falcons at Montour have already fledged this year, but may still be seen in the area. At Martins Creek, the falcons are expected to start trying out their wings on June 20. The estimated date for the falcons in Allentown to start fledging is June 27.

How long will we be watching the falcons?
The falcons will fledge in three to four weeks.

How do I know if it is one of PPL’s young peregrine falcons?
You can check out birdsofpreyatPPL.com for photos of the young peregrines for comparison. Additionally, the young falcons have been banded. Look for a small metal “bracelet” on each of the falcon’s legs. If the right leg has a silver band with colored tape on it and the left leg has a black over green metal band, it is very likely to be one of the PPL peregrines. Do not attempt to handle the bird. These are wild animals, and they will defend themselves.

What do I do if I see a peregrine falcon?
Do not attempt to handle the bird. These are wild animals, and they will defend themselves. Try to obtain as much information as possible without disturbing the falcon, such as the band color, where the bird is located, when it was observed, its condition and a brief description of what it was doing. Report your sighting by calling 610-774-5175 or filling out the online peregrine sighting report form.

What should I do if I see a grounded falcon?
If you find a falcon down on the ground and it is unable to fly, first try to confirm it is a peregrine falcon (see above question). Contact the Falcon Watch at 610-774-5175. PPL will attempt to retrieve and safely return a downed falcon to the nest site.

What should I do if I see an injured falcon?
Do not attempt to handle the bird. These are wild animals, and they will defend themselves. If you can safely protect the bird from additional injury without putting yourself at risk, do so. First try to confirm it is a peregrine falcon (see the question above). Next try to obtain as much information about the falcon as possible, such as the band color, where the bird is located and what condition it is in. Contact the Falcon Watch at 610-774-5175 right away so we can send someone to help the falcon.

What should I do if I find a downed or injured bird that is not a peregrine falcon?
If you find another wild bird that needs assistance, we recommend you contact your local Pennsylvania Game Commission wildlife conservation officer. The list is available here.

What will happen to the falcon if it stumbles while learning to fly?
Chances are that the falcon will be able to get its wings under it enough to glide to the ground safely and with minimal injury. In this case, PPL will be able to retrieve the bird and return it safely to its nest. Sometimes, a falcon will be injured when it’s first learning to fly. If you spot an injured bird, contact Falcon Watch at 610-774-5175.

Does banding injure the falcons?
No, the banding is done for their benefit. It allows them to have a brief checkup before they begin fledging and also will provide valuable tracking information that can be used to successfully remove them from the endangered species list as their population increases. As for the band itself, it fits the falcons the same way a bracelet or watch fits one of us, so it does not cause any harm to the falcons.