This is the week that the Downtown peregrine chicks will fly for the first time.  Right now their parents are protective while the “kids” exercise their wings.

Above, Dori paid a visit to Matthew Richardson’s balcony at Point Park’s Lawrence Hall last Thursday.

Matthew carefully checked that no peregrines were in view when he went out on the balcony with a friend, but soon Dori flew in from below, circled, and landed on the railing.

Fortunately she was silent.  Though she wasn’t angry and kakking, she got her point across that she wants folks to stay back from above while her kids are at this vulnerable stage.  Matthew wrote that she “did have pretty loud non-verbals!”

At the nest her four youngsters have lost their down and are flapping up a storm.  On Sunday they were clearly visible at the nest opening.  Mary DeVaughn saw two perched at the edge while Dori watched from above.

Stop by Third Ave Downtown to watch them fledge. Make sure they don’t become stranded on the street. Click here for directions.

This is the week! By June 7 the excitement near Point Park University will disperse as the young peregrines explore other parts of Downtown.

(Dori’s balcony photo by Matthew Richardson. Nest area photo by Mary DeVaughn)