Peregrine Falcons at UC Davis Medical Center
A pair of peregrine falcons returned once again to nest atop UC Davis Medical Center in early 2026. Positioned at a safe distance from the hospital’s busy helipad, the site continues to provide a secure vantage point for the birds.
The pair laid four eggs in March, and three chicks hatched and developed in the nest box. Those chicks — Christina, Annie and Genevieve — later reached a major milestone, taking their first flights and beginning to explore the skies above campus.
During this early flight period, one of the fledglings was lost after a window strike near the nest site. Such incidents are a known risk for young birds navigating urban environments.
The two remaining fledglings continue to develop, guided by the adult falcons as they build strength, coordination and hunting skills. This stage marks a critical transition from dependence to independence and typically includes several weeks of flight practice and hunting instruction.
William “Bill” Corbett, a longtime UC Davis Health employee and the organization’s resident falcon expert, played a key role in supporting and sharing the story of the falcons over many years. Corbett retired in 2026 after 19 years of service and remains a valued resource, continuing to monitor future nest activity and support the program.
The UC Davis Health falcon nest remains a unique and enduring presence on campus, offering a rare look at wildlife in an urban healthcare setting.
About the Peregrine Falcon
The peregrine falcon used to be on the U.S. Endangered Species List. It was also one of the first birds placed on California's Endangered Species List.
Luckily, the raptor was removed from the federal list in 1999, thanks to efforts by The Peregrine Fund and others. The ban of DDT in 1972 in the U.S. also helped the species recover. The led to the falcons removal from the state Endangered Species List in 2009.
Experts estimate the first-year survival rate for the chicks is about 50%. Urban falcons face hazards such as injury, illness, and predators. The young birds typically fly away from the nest at the medical center sometime in mid-June. Experts say the birds usually stay in the area for another month as their parents continue to feed them and encourage them to hunt.
Here are a few other facts about peregrine falcons:
- Scientific name: Falco peregrinus
- Body length: 13-20 in (33-50 cm)
- Wingspan: 31-48 in (78-122 cm)
- Weight: 1 to 3.5 lbs (0.4-1.5 kg)
- Like many raptors, peregrine falcon females are larger than males.
- Peregrine falcons can hit top speeds in flight of 200 mph and are considered the fastest animal on earth.
- Peregrines don't build typical nests like other birds. Instead, they lay eggs in a shallow indent on the edge of a high cliff or other manmade structure, like a building or bridge.
- Baby peregrine falcons can start flying at 43 to 44 days old.
- Peregrines prey on small- to medium-sized birds, like songbirds, ducks, doves and pigeons. They are also known to feed on small reptiles, mammals and bats.
To learn more about the peregrine falcon and other birds of prey, check out the California Raptor Center at UC Davis and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.