Ironton-Russell Bridge Peregrine Falcons to be Banded

IRONTON, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife will be conducting a peregrine falcon banding Monday, May 19 at the small park located on the Kentucky side of the Ironton-Russell Bridge. This event will be open to the public, and offers those who attend the opportunity for an up-close look at peregrine falcon nestlings.

The event will begin at 10:30 a.m., and last about an hour. A biologist will climb under the bridge where the nest is located to retrieve the nestlings. Once on the ground, Division of Wildlife biologists will outfit the three week old peregrine falcon chicks with state and federal identification bands.

This event is weather-dependent; heavy rain, high winds or lightning would be cause for cancellation. For information contact the Wildlife District Four office at 740-589-9930.

Ohio’s peregrine falcon program is supported by the state income tax check-off program, sales of the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, donations to the Wildlife Diversity and Endangered Species Fund, and sales of cardinal license plates. License plates may be purchased from local deputy registrars or by calling 1-888-PLATES3. Matching federal funds are provided through the State Wildlife Grant program for this project and other wildlife diversity efforts of the Division of Wildlife that target species of greatest conservation need.

For more information about peregrine falcons and nesting locations across the state, go to: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/wildlife-watching/falcon-cam.