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BERKELEY'S NEWS • JUNE 02, 2023

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'Wonderful memories': Campanile falcon found dead west of campus

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CAL FALCONS | COURTESY

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Executive News Editor

AUGUST 25, 2022

Only two months after graduating from “flight school,” Campanile peregrine falcon Lindsay was found dead on the west edge of UC Berkeley’s campus, according to the CalFalcons’ Twitter.

Lindsay was last seen atop the Campanile in early August, the CalFalcons’ Twitter noted, and it is likely that she died not too long after that observation. One of two chicks born this year, Lindsay was only three months old.

According to the CalFalcons’ Twitter, the first year of a peregrine falcon’s life is particularly difficult with a 40-50% survival rate due to their need to foster their own independence. From finding their own food to protecting themselves from predators, life for the young falcons begins with exceptional difficulty.

While the cause of her death is not exactly certain, the CalFalcons’ Twitter said they suspect the culprit to have been a red-shouldered hawk. While peregrines are typically unlikely to be threatened by other raptors, young birds are notably vulnerable to other predators.

“We’re sorry to share this sad news with everyone, and wanted to thank Lindsay for all the wonderful memories from this year,” the CalFalcons’ tweet reads.

Matt Brown is the executive news editor. Contact him at [email protected], and follow him on Twitter at @maattttbrown.
LAST UPDATED

AUGUST 25, 2022