Cathedral peregrine's maiden flight
09 Jun 10
The maiden flight of one of four peregrine chicks, which hatched on top of an 11th century Chichester cathedral over five weeks ago, has been captured on camera, the RSPB has said.
Visitors to the RSPB's Date With Nature project, supported by Worcester City Council, sighted the chick flying near the Norman and Gothic-styled cathedral in West Sussex.
RSPB project officer Chris Woolner said: "We've watched the chicks flapping their wings to strengthen their muscles over the last few days and knew it wouldn't be long before they went for a test flight.
"It's a real thrill although a little nerve-racking when they first fledge. The male chick hopped out of the nest and onto the wall and has been entertaining onlookers practising his moves.
"It won't be long before the others follow his lead and then the fun really begins with great views of all the birds flying round chasing each other's tails."
Visitor William Vousden, who photographed the chick, said: "It was very special to capture such a key moment in the life of this peregrine."
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http://www.rspb.org.uk/ (RSPB)
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