07 May 2025
Resident birds of prey Alban and Boudica have two new eggs in their nest at St Albans Cathedral, a welcome development following an incident in which their first clutch of the breeding season was destroyed last month.
The pair of Peregrine falcons at St Albans Cathedral have captured the public’s interest since their first chick hatched in 2022, and since 2023 the public have been able to watch their every move on the nesting tray high up on the Cathedral during their breeding season, courtesy of a live webcam feed.
Last year the webcam attracted over half a million views, and, following the incident on April 7 in which their three eggs were destroyed, understandably there has been a huge outpouring of public upset.
Since then, the webcam has been turned off and a police investigation into the incident is ongoing. The birds have frequently been seen mating, and have gone on to defy the odds by breeding again this year – a first egg was laid on May 4, a second on May 7 and there is still potential for more to follow.
The webcam, which has been sponsored by Opticron, has now been switched back on, enabling the public to follow the birds’ progress once again.
Chloë Edwards, director of Nature Recovery at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, said: “It’s wonderful that the Peregrine falcons have laid eggs for the second time in this breeding season, and it shows just how resilient nature can be – given the right habitat and conditions species will continue to thrive.
“Peregrine falcons normally mate for life and often remain loyal to their nest site each year so the Cathedral is now an established breeding ground. We weren’t expecting more eggs this year but nature can surprise and delight us – welcome indeed, given the loss and sadness many of us felt last month. Within society, this connection with nature is vital for us caring enough for wildlife so that we recognise its importance and support its recovery.
“With the St Albans Cathedral Peregrines being one of only five breeding pairs in Hertfordshire, this is a much-needed boost for all those who cherish these remarkable birds of prey and champion our local wildlife.”
Very Revd Dean Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans Cathedral, said: “These extraordinary birds have once again reminded us of nature’s strength and beauty. We are heartened by their return, and we remain fully committed to their safety and wellbeing. Shaped by the story of Alban, this Cathedral has always been a place of sanctuary — for people and for wildlife alike.”
The webcam can be viewed here.
