UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN Biodiversity Center's PEREGRINE FALCON NEST BOX
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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN PEREGRINE FALCON
The University of Texas Tower is home to a female Peregrine Falcon, nicknamed "Tower Girl." An urban predator who lives in Austin year round, she can be seen swooping down at remarkable speeds to find her prey.
The Peregrine falcon has rebounded from near-extinction in the mid 20th century. Use of the pesticide DDT caused its near destruction in eastern North America. But now, they are widespread on all continents except Antarctica.
The falcon's diet consists of other birds, and occasionally bats. When hunting, they can fly up to 67 mph, and when "stooping" on their prey, will dive up to speeds of 238 mph. The falcon does have predators of its own to contend with, such as eagles and Great Horned Owls.
Peregrine falcons prefer to nest in high places like cliffs, skyscrapers, churches, and other man-made structures. The incubation period for their eggs is 29-32 days, and the nestling period is from 35-42 days.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN PEREGRINE FALCON CAM
The live camera is located at the top of University of Texas at Austin's iconic tower which is 302 feet tall.
The Biodiversity Center scientists and students study issues of land use and species interaction in Texas and work to raise awareness about a wide diversity of animals, plants, ecosystems and their interactions. This project supports the Biodiversity Center's mission in research, education, and public engagement.