The Raptors of Rochester

SPRING, 2006-2007

For eight years, Peregrine Falcons, once a species on the brink of extinction in the eastern U.S., have been returning to Rochester’s Kodak Building to breed and raise another generation of raptors (birds of prey). They aren’t alone, either. Several different species of raptors call Rochester home, in spite of the changes humans have brought to the Natural World.

During this expedition students learned about the adaptations of raptors and how they are uniquely suited for a life of hunting. They explored a variety of local habitats within and beyond the city that provide the needs for our local raptors and became experts at identifying different species of birds. Students also studied animal migration and habitation through extended-day field studies, conducted original research to study the life cycles of birds, and participated in Project Nestbox, sharing our data with the Cornell Ornithology Lab.

Finally, the class participated in an overnight field study to learn about the role humans have had in habitat and species conservation and provide a real-world service to a reclaimed habitat seeking to attract more raptors to the Rochester region.