Assuming that the birds are nesting and not roosting, most Peregrine
breeding occurs between July and December across Australia. However, there
are records as late as May (or as early as depending on your view - the
half-full glass scenario). In southern Queensland, I am aware of 'early'
nesting behaviour from late May and recently fledged birds being seen in
late May-early June.
It is rare but but not unknown for nesting to occur in Qld into January or
late February. The work that Penny has done on Peregrine nesting indicates
that climate (rainfall, temperature, etc) is a major influence on timing of
nesting. I have received a couple of recent local reports of SEQ Peregrines
nesting at the moment which would indicate that something climate related is
happening this season. Also, some late nesting by Wedge-tails as well as
display behaviour by Accipiter spp and Falco spp has also been reported but
these need to be followed up (a couple of reports could be parent with
fledgling).
BTW, the only other local raptor that is likely to be found nesting on a
cliff is Nankeen Kestrel.
Cheers
Greg
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