Thursday Thinking

Thursday, May 21, 2020

Thursday Thinking

From The PF Palace - Thursday Edition -

The latest Falcon Wire posting

5/20/2020 :: Falcon Watch and Rescue

The volunteer Falcon Watch and Rescue program, organized each year by DEP, will proceed for 2020 with coronavirus mitigation procedures in place in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while helping to ensure the safety of Harrisburg's newest young peregrine falcons as they begin to fledge.

Volunteers are needed to help monitor and assist the young falcons beginning around Friday, May 29, and concluding around Monday, June 8. The daily volunteer schedule consists of four shifts (including weekends):

5:30 AM - 9 AM, 9 AM - 1 PM, 1 PM - 5 PM, and 5 PM - 9 PM.

In an urban environment like downtown Harrisburg, first flights can expose falcon fledglings to hazards such as traffic, tall buildings, and other vulnerable situations. Young falcons may also have difficulties returning to the nest located on the 15th floor ledge of the Rachel Carson State Office Building (RCSOB). During a Watch, volunteers closely monitor the flights in case the birds require assistance. If assistance is required, a Rescue is performed. Following strict guidelines, the fledgling is captured and returned to the RCSOB roof where the adult falcons take over.

If you are interested in volunteering for one or more shifts, please contact Sue Hannon, Volunteer Coordinator, by May 27 at (717) 736-1035 or hbgfalconwatch@gmail.com.

Please note: All volunteers are required to sign a Volunteer Agreement stating that they will abide by DEP policies, including COVID-19 mitigation measures. Volunteers are responsible for providing their own face masks, hand sanitizer, wipes, nitrile gloves, and other personal items, and must wear face masks while participating in the Watch & Rescue program. DEP will provide the necessary Rescue equipment, such as nets, helmets, and boxes. Binoculars may be loaned for use during a shift, if requested ahead of time.

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