Fifth Egg Laid in DNR’s Peregrine Falcon Nest

(Learfield News/St. Paul, MN) — For the first time in the history of the DNR’s FalconCam, a peregrine falcon pair has laid a rare fifth egg—something seen in only about seven percent of Midwest clutches.

Staff spotted the egg on Tuesday, marking a milestone for the nest box that’s been in place since 1987.

Peregrine falcons typically lay three to four eggs, and incubation began on April 26th when the fourth egg was laid. That means viewers can expect the first signs of hatching between May 29th and May 31st.

While a five-egg clutch is exciting, experts say not all may hatch, and even if they do, raising five chicks can be a challenge, with survival to fledging not guaranteed.

Click here to go to the FalconCam.