PEREGRINE falcons are making a breeding attempt on Christchurch Priory, in a landmark occasion for the town.

The Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group (CHOG) has announced this is the first time breeding has been attempted by peregrines around the Priory, despite the bird of prey being a regular sight. 

CHOG chairman, Dr Chris Chapleo, said: “This is a landmark occasion for the town and we hope the attempt will be successful and the first of many. 

“As soon as breeding was suspected, we contacted the management of the Priory and their response and sensitivity to the situation was incredible. 

“We would like to extend our thanks to all involved.” 

The male bird, identified by a blue ring on his leg with the letters ‘VA’, was hatched in 2018 on the Bournemouth College clock tower in Lansdowne and has been frequently recorded around Christchurch ever since. 

Peregrine falcons nearly became extinct in the UK during the 1960s, mainly down to human persecution and the pesticides in the food chain.  

The RSPB estimates there are 1,500 breeding pairs of peregrine falcons in the UK, and can have a wingspan of up to 115cm.

The species of bird of prey is relatively new to the south, with the falcon migrating to southern England in the last two decades.