The skies above UC Berkeley's Campanile are again the backdrop for a tale of avian romance and resilience as Annie, the celebrity falcon, steps into the spotlight with a new suitor. Following the mysterious disappearance of her former mate, Lou, Annie has been observed mating with a fresh feathered face that swooped in just in time for the breeding season. According to a report by UC Berkeley News, bird watchers keeping an eye on the iconic tower have seen signs of Annie's readiness to welcome the new contender into her nest.
With Lou having vanished without the trace of an identification band, speculation abounds, including the possibility of avian flu being the cause, as indicated in Sean Peterson's interview with UC Berkeley News. The new male, spotted by Annie's side, stands out with a "very svelte" appearance, a lighter coloration on his head, and a streak of light gray/white just above his beak, Peterson detailed.
Turnover among the falcons at UC Berkeley has been higher than average, with Annie remaining a constant since arriving in 2016, while the rest of the cast seems to come and go with the seasons. Peterson, affiliated with the Cal Falcons group, pointed out to SFist that the Bay Area's favorable peregrine habitats and dedicated bird watchers contribute to better tracking and understanding of these majestic birds, despite recent losses within the population.
The drama at the Campanile has captured the attention of bird enthusiasts, who wait with bated breath to see if Annie and her new partner will further expand the lineage of Berkeley's peregrine falcons. Sean Peterson told SFist that this potential seventh brood for Annie comes as hopeful news, following the adversity faced by her previous mates and offspring. In addition to Annie's unfolding love life, two banded chicks have been spotted thriving in the wild, offering a glimmer of hope for the species' generational continuity in the region.
Webcams perched on the Campanile provide a 24/7 view into the lives of these urban raptors. This initiative has offered a rare glimpse into the natural world to countless online onlookers.
