Peregrine chick hatches in 'wonderful comeback'

A peregrine falcon chick has successfully hatched after its parents' first set of eggs – known as a clutch – was destroyed by a vandal.

The chick is the first to hatch this year at St Albans Cathedral, with the new baby seen on a live webcam.

Eggs belonging to the birds of prey were deliberately smashed in April, but the pair of falcons were not deterred and laid a second clutch.

"We're delighted to see the wonderful comeback these birds have made, demonstrating just how resilient they are," said Lea Ellis, engagement manager at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

The peregrine is a species of large crow-sized falcon and can travel at more than 200mph (320 km/h), making it the fastest diving bird in the world.

The falcon pair - who were named Alban and Boudica after local historical figures - captured the public's interest since producing chicks every year since 2022.

The new chick emerged on Monday from one of three eggs, with onlookers waiting to see if any brothers or sisters would hatch.

Ms Ellis said: "The hatching of their first chick this year signifies hope, and I am optimistic that we will see more chicks on the nest tray in the very near future.

"It is not unusual for the eggs to hatch hours or days apart and sometimes eggs do not hatch, as they can be infertile."

She added: "For those watching the webcam, there will be times when the parents will be out of sight, but I'd urge people not to worry about this, as they will be close by to protect the chick or chicks."

Hertfordshire Police opened an investigation into the vandalised clutch in April and previously said inquiries were "ongoing".

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