New Chicks on the block
There are some new chicks on the block in Marquette.
WE Energies, in their efforts to help the endangered Peregrine Falcons, built nests on top of their Southern Most Stack at Presque Isle Powerplant and waited a decade for the first Falcon to make it their home. Their New Haven beauty recently gave birth to three chicks.
Wildlife bands were put on the three chicks, to be able to keep track of their movements, habitat needs and check for overall health. Families of the power plant were in attendance and the kids even got to submit names for the chicks and their mom.
“I got picked for naming a Falcon, I was happy because it is the first time I got my named picked. I just think it is a cool name and I named one of my pets Herman, 9 years–old.
“I like their feathers and I like the different colors, I like their head guard, they were cute and I like birds a lot, ark, ark, ark, ark, ark, ark, ark. said Zoe Stephens, 1st grade, recent graduate.
Along with Herman, the other two chicks a girl and a boy were named Aurora and Bullet. The mom was named Maya Angelou. The wildlife banding had to be timed just perfectly. The chicks had to be old enough to be able to distinguish their sex but before they were ready to take flight.
WE energies said they waited a decade for their first Falcon to take nest but for the past three years this event has gotten better and better.
“I love doing these events and getting the kids involved to see their faces and their reactions when they get to witness nature up close and personal for the first time. The birds are pretty noisy, the kids just love it and it’s just really great to see that excitement on their face,” said Cathy Schulze, WE Energies Spokesperson.
A special surprise was in store for everyone. The Chocolay Rapture Center brought out the newly born chicks older brother, Phoenix. Phoenix was one of the first Peregrine Falcons banded at the plant in 60 years.
It will be a few weeks yet, before the chicks fly the coup. You can view them via webcam at www.weenergies.com
Peregrine Falcons when diving for prey can reach speeds up to 200 miles per hour.