Based on my experience watching large falcons in the Boulder Mountain Parks, I
would say that the courtship and copulation period can easily last several
weeks. The eggs are laid over a span of several days (no more than one egg per
day) and copulation will continue throughout the laying period. The female may
not start to incubate continuously until all the eggs are laid. Once
incubation starts, there'll be a lot less activity around the nest area,
probably just the occasional food drop or nest exchange.
It will also be interesting to see how the peregrines and prairies at Red Rocks
tolerate each other. In the Flatirons, the PEFAs seem to maintain air
superiority over the PRFAs when they're both nesting in the same area. PEFAs
will dive-bomb or otherwise harass the PRFAs to keep them well away from active
(or even prospective) PEFA nests.
Aren't raptors amazing to watch in all respects?! For those of you who aren't
afraid to risk serious addiction, let me recommend Boulder OSMP's raptor
monitoring volunteer program. It's very well-run, beginners get plenty of
guidance, and it's an amazing opportunity to get to know these incredible birds
(and spend time amidst stunning scenery.)
Another recommendation: "Falcons of North America" by Kate Davis. Easy
reading, lots of fascinating info, plus plenty of awesome pictures by
Colorado's own Rob Palmer.
-Peter Ruprecht
Superior
>
> I was surprised to see the Peregrines copulating, since on
> Saturday, March 20, an Evergreen Audubon Field Trip saw
> copulation take place. I surmised the female might be
> sitting on eggs by now. How long does
> courtship last, and how soon after copulation takes egg
> laying take place?
>
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