The first signs of spring are taking flight! Peregrine falcons in Milwaukee return to We Energies power plants

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The world's fastest species are slowing down to take a pit stop in Milwaukee.

Peregrine falcons have been spotted on top of several We Energies power plants, thanks to the company's cameras that are livestreaming the nest boxes.

Efforts to protect the endangered species started in 1992.

In the last few decades, nearly 450 peregrine falcons have been born at We Energies facilities, which is 20% of all peregrine falcons born in Wisconsin.

For Alison Trouy, a spokesperson with We Energies, it's exciting to see them return each year, marking the beginning of spring.

"They're about to lay eggs and start their season," Trouy told CBS 58's Ellie Nakamoto-White. "It's all about creating a brighter future for the people and the animals in the communities we serve."

There are cameras set up at these four different locations in Wisconsin. To watch, click each link below. 

• Oak Creek Power Plant
• Port Washington Generating Station
• Valley Power Plant in Milwaukee
• Weston Power Plant in Rothschild
  

"People will tune in and watch this endangered species lay eggs, raise their young, and watch them venture off in the world," Trouy said, adding that the return of these birds is a well-known local tradition. "You get a literal window into the lives of an endangered species and that's so rare."

The falcons born at the company are then banded so officials can track them later on in life.

In a few weeks, We Energies will announce their naming contest for the newly-born chicks.

While Trouy couldn't say what this year's theme is, she did hint it is "gold-medal worthy."

You can view details on the contest and updates on each nest box on X, Facebook, and Instagram.