A video from Salisbury Cathedral's livestream showing the birds successfully fledging Picture: Salisbury Cathedral

Soaring success as Salisbury Cathedral’s peregrines fledge the nest

Tait ap EllisJune 13, 20250 Comment0

ALL four peregrine falcon juveniles have now fledged their nest high on top of the South Tower of Salisbury Cathedral.

The birds – called Douglas, Afon, Ford, and Shannon – can now be seen soaring above visitors to the cathedral after they first started to hatch in April.

The fluffy celebrities have been watched by thousands through the Salisbury Cathedral livestream as eagle-eyed viewers kept a keen eye on their progress over the past few months.

The birds are expected to stick close to their parents as they hone their hunting skills, before they are expected to take off for adventures new in August.

“It feels like only yesterday we were eagerly anticipating the eggs hatching, and now our little chicks have grown into young peregrine juveniles,” a Salisbury Cathedral spokesperson said.

“Douglas, Afon, Ford, and Shannon have all taken the plunge and are soaring the skies around the tower, getting to know their wings and learning how to hunt with Mum and Dad properly.

“They will probably stay in the area until around August, when they will then venture into the wider world.”

Throughout June, the RSPB South Wilts branch are allowing people to take a closer look at the birds through high-spec telescopes through their ‘Date with Nature’ events.

A gazebo will be found near the Cloisters entrance where people can look at photos and information about the peregrines. Volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions people may have about the popular birds.

Remaining dates (11am to 4pm)