Falcon Devours Pigeon at Union Square

I’m not a bird watcher by any means, although from time to time, I am guilty of walking around the city with my DSLR camera and photographing anything that moves. I spotted this Peregrine falcon atop a tree at Union Square in Manhattan, munching away on a freshly killed pigeon. A large group had gathered around the sight gasping, taking pictures with their cell phones, you know… the usual in NYC.

With a ton of free time on my hands, I took well over 150 images of the falcon’s complete deconstruction of the pigeon it was feasting on. It eventually flew away as more and more people gathered around the tree. I have to admit it was pretty amazing display of power as the falcon unfolded its wings and began flapping them slowly as it rose up into the air.

After doing some research I found that in New York City, there are at least 13 pairs of these Peregrine falcons that nest on bridges, building ledges and in church bell towers. These species were recently taken of the Department of Environmental Conservation’s list of endangered species after the NY state’s effort in bringing these species back into their habitat, NY state.

The Chrysler building’s upper floors display amazing sculpted eagles at its corners. It’s still pretty cool how closely these steel sculptures resemble falcons. I’d love for a chance in photographing them up close from the floors above the 61st floor on which they’re located.