Once-rare birds of prey are now urban warriors (From The Argus)

Once-rare birds of prey are now urban warriors

1:30pm Sunday 17th February 2013 in News By Ben James

Peregrine falcon numbers have grown to such an extent that the birds of prey are now battling each other for precious nest sites.

Just 20 years ago there were no breeding pairs at all in the county.

But following a reduction in the use of pesticides and because of the birds’ love of urban landscapes, there are now approximately 30 breeding partners that call Sussex home.

Michael Blencowe, from the Sussex Wildlife Trust, said: “They used to be something of a rare sight but not any more.

“You can be walking through Brighton and you only have to look up to see them.

“There is such competition for territory now that you will often see them having these epic aerial battles.

“The noise is incredible.”

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