We need three names…

Nebraska Game and Parks Non-Game Wildlife Biologists and the Nebraska Raptor Recovery Center were at the Capitol on June 10 to check and band our three Peregrine Falcon chicks. Using talon size as an indicator, non-game bird biologist Joel Jorgensen determined there is one female, larger talon, and two males, smaller talons. Now that we know the gender of the chicks, the naming contest can begin. The three eyas can be seen at Game and Parks Outdoor Nebraska website. The eyas, as the chicks are known, will grow quickly. The downy white feathers will soon be replaced by the black and gray feathers of adulthood. Already black feathers are emerging on their wings and they should begin to venture from the nest about the time the contest ends, June 24, and they should be flying by the time names are announced, July 3. Visitors on the Capitol observation decks know the eyas are feeding and growing as the parents come and go throughout the day, bringing birds to the hungry mouths. The tell-tale leftovers of their meals- feathers, feet, heads and wings, are visible reminders of the Peregrines living on top of the Capitol. Three names, one for a girl and two for the boys, are needed. You may submit your names in person at the Capitol or on the internet.