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What’s New in the Nest: Four Eggs for Union County’s Peregrine Falcons

Update May 29, 2019: The falcon eggs have hatched. Watch the parents raise their young on the free Falcon Cam livestream.

Union County, NJ – Two peregrine falcons are watching over four new eggs in their nest, high atop the roof of the historic Union County Courthouse Tower in bustling midtown Elizabeth.

Students, researchers, and falcon fans can keep watch, too, by tuning into the free Union County Falcon Cam livestream.

“We are very proud that Union County is part of the efforts to preserve and protect peregrine falcons in our region,” said Freeholder Chair Bette Jane Kowalski. “The Falcon Cam provides a unique opportunity to observe a falcon nest, especially at this time of year when the female has laid her eggs.”

Hatching occurs between 29 and 33 days after the last egg appears. The female laid her final egg on Friday, April 5.

The Union County website provides a free livestream of the Falcon Cam at ucnj.org/falcon.

Peregrine falcons are one of the fastest animals in the world, reaching speeds of up to 220 miles per hour when diving for prey. Their main source of prey includes pigeons and other birds.

They build their nests in cliffs, ledges, and other high points. As the tallest building in Elizabeth, the Union County Courthouse is a desirable location for a falcon nest.

Union County’s falcon preservation efforts have been undertaken with the generous assistance of the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and the nonprofit organization Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.

For more details about educational programs related to the Union County Falcon Cam, and for information on corporate sponsorships, call Conserve Wildlife Foundation at 609-984-6012 or use the contact form.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at ucnj.org/green-connection.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

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