A chance to hatch names for new chicks
NATURE lovers are being given the chance to name Rochdale’s newest residents - the town hall’s peregrine falcon chicks.
The birds of prey saw the first of their eggs hatch earlier this month.
They moved into the town centre in 2008 and are regularly seen soaring above the buildings.
And soon another one will be taking flight, as chicks are usually up in the air within six weeks of being born.
But before then town hall chiefs are running a competition to name the youngsters - with an afternoon tea for two at the Clock Tower Dining Room and a tour of the town hall up for grabs.
To be in with a chance of winning send your suggested names along with your name and postcode to falcons@ rochdale.gov.uk or visa post to Name the falcon chicks competition, Communications Team, Floor 2, Number One Riverside, Smith Street, Rochdale OL16 1XU.
As the tallest building in the town centre, the town hall reflects the birds’ natural habitat, and nine years ago a nesting area was built to provide them with a safe haven in which to sleep, breed and raise their young.
They have attracted considerable public interest and a live webcam has been set up so anyone, anywhere can keep an eye on their progress throughout the nesting season.
The live feed is also played on a screen in the entrance to the town hall.
To watch the live feed visit rochdale.gov.uk/falcons.
Writing on Facebook the council said: “The four fluffy falcons at Rochdale Town Hall have been ringed by birding experts and, we can exclusively reveal, there are two males and two females.
“Our feathered friends were found to be fit, healthy and eating well.
“Enjoy watching the chicks via our live webcam.”