Tag time with falcons

WSDOT biologist tagging peregrine falcon chick
Photo courtesy WSDOT

Earlier this month, WSDOT biologist George Ritchotte led a team under the I-5 Ship Canal bridge on the yearly trek to tag the peregrine falcon chicks who live with their mama and papa under the bridge.

Dodging protective dive-bombing parents (they can fly at 200 mph!) and sharp talons while high above Lake Union, bands were gently placed around the legs of two chicks. This allows researchers to monitor the health of the local peregrine falcon population, which at one time was endangered but has come roaring back.

Once completed, humans made a hasty retreat to safety while mama falcon Bridget was heard to yell, “And stay out!