Macomb County officials have launched a new EarthCam that will document a pair of peregrine falcons that nest on the roof of the Old Macomb County Building in downtown Mount Clemens. The camera will provide a 24/7 video feed for members of the public interested in watching the pair and its potential hatchlings. The feed is accessible here: http://www.macombgov.org/Peregrine
“We are grateful for the opportunity to provide the public with access to this remarkable animal in real time,” said County Executive Mark A. Hackel. “For years we have followed the story of these two from afar and now – hopefully – we will have a chance to watch as they raise more peregrine falcons for the Great Lakes region."
The peregrine falcons, named Nick and Hathor, were first spotted on the county building in 2005. The pair’s first successful nest was observed in 2008 and since that time, the nest has produced 53 eggs and 26 hatchlings. In the years with successful hatchlings, Macomb County held ceremonies to celebrate and band the baby birds with the help of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Detroit Zoo. This process was important, because in Michigan, peregrines are listed as an endangered species under state law and remain protected federally under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
“It’s been a team effort from the start,” said Julie Oakes, wildlife biologist, MDNR Southeast Region. “Since county officials first observed the falcons and their nest, we’ve worked closely with them to ensure the health of the animals and to make sure that their nesting area is protected. And with the addition of the EarthCam, we’ll be able to watch them without disturbing them.”
EarthCam is a global network of owned and operated live streaming webcams built to transport people to interesting and unique locations around the world that may be difficult or impossible to experience in person. The EarthCam installed on the Old Macomb County Building was given to the county free of charge.
Megan Ochmanek is a communications specialist for the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development.