WATCH: Rare Peregrine Falcons Nest In Union County

ELIZABETH, NJ — A pair of rare peregrine falcons have once again made their nest on the roof of the historic 17-story Union County Courthouse Tower in Elizabeth.

And locals can get a close-up look of their daily activities through the free livestream “Falcon Cam” by the Union County Freeholder Board and the nonprofit Conserve Wildlife Foundation of New Jersey.

Union County installed two cameras inside and outside of the nest in 2016. This winter a third camera has been added to provide a scenic view, and audio will be available later this year.

The two current occupants of the nest have spent the winter “pair bonding.” Bird watchers who visit the Falcon Cam at the right time can catch sight of the two falcons meeting at the nest, bowing to each other and communicating with gentle sounds called “ee-chupping.”

“While peregrine falcons were completely gone east of the Mississippi River just a few decades ago, this magnificent bird – the fastest animal in the world – has recovered dramatically in recent years,” said Conserve Wildlife Foundation executive director David Wheeler. “Thanks to Union County, students and New Jerseyans of all ages can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at this rare wildlife reality show unfolding near tens of thousands of people in downtown Elizabeth.”

In winter the prime time for viewing is early morning. Activity also tends to occur mid-afternoon. If the pair breeds, the nest will be occupied almost constantly until the chicks fledge.

The Courthouse Tower hosts one of only two falcon cams in New Jersey. The other falcon cam is in Jersey City.

The free Falcon Cam livestream is available on the Union County website at ucnj.org/falcon.

(Image via Union County)

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