Help us Name our Baby Falcons!

Names are chosen in honor of Mango, the current resident male and parent of the four chicks. We have been watching Mango raise chicks since the installation of the Falcon Cam in 2016.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites nature lovers of all ages to watch as two adult peregrine falcons raise four chicks in their nest atop the historic Union County Courthouse Tower in Elizabeth. The Union County Falcon Cam is the only live peregrine falcon cam in New Jersey and offers three unique views of the nest and surrounding rooftop area.

“We are very proud to continue partnering with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife and the Conserve Wildlife Foundation to connect our Union County community—and communities around the world—with the nesting habits of these magnificent birds of prey,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Tuning into the Falcon Cam has become a beloved tradition in Union County. It’s more than just a livestream — it’s an educational resource, a conservation tool, and a reminder of the power of community science to connect us all to the natural world.”

This year, the public is invited to help name the four chicks that hatched in mid to late April 2025. Ten tropical fruit-inspired names have been selected in honor of Mango, the current resident male falcon. From May 23 through June 15, everyone is encouraged to vote for their favorite four names, and learn more about these fascinating birds.

Mango, known for his bright orange legs and feet, has raised chicks at the Courthouse Tower since the Falcon Cam launched in 2016. Over the years, he has had three known mates. His current partner, Frida, is the resident female. Together, they continue to captivate viewers with their care and cooperation as parents.

On May 19, 2025, all four chicks were banded by a New Jersey State Biologist Kathy Clark, who determined that the group includes three females and one male. Banding is a vital conservation tool that helps researchers monitor movement, population health, and survival rates among peregrine falcons.

Tropical fruit name choices include: Coconut, Kiwi, Goji, Guava, Papaya, Olive, Avocado, Pomegranate, Jackfruit, and Lychee.

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• We Have Lift Off!

  We Have Lift Off!  Peregrine Falcon chicks are learning to fly on top of the Union County Courthouse

  BN60, one of Union County’s newest female falcon chicks, is learning to fly and hunt her prey.  All four of the falcon chicks are all easily making their way around the roof and onto railings to perch, which is called branching.

  This is an important time for them to hone their flight skills, especially landing and taking off.  Males can fledge as early as six weeks old.

  This clutch, or group, of falcons contains three females and one male.  Once the falcon chicks do fledge, the adults will continue to provide food for them. Sometimes, they will transfer prey mid-air, which will also help the young develop hunting skills that they will use for the rest of their lives.