A peregrine falcon has produced its first egg of the spring at a cathedral where raptors have been breeding for 25 years.

Chichester Cathedral announced that peregrine falcons returned to breed on the cathedral tower in February.

The year’s first egg appeared there at approximately 5:50am on March 25.

Peregrine falcons have been monitored breeding on the tower since 2001 and have successfully fledged over 70 young during that period.

Their initial appearance on the tower was reportedly documented in the mid-1980s by a mathematics instructor at the nearby Prebendal School.

A chronicle following the peregrines is maintained by David and Janet Shaw, who have observed the birds since their initial appearance.

Last season, the resident falcon gave birth to three offspring, with one perishing.

Two healthy females remained at the nesting site and received identification bands on June 2, 2025, by a member of the Sussex Ornithological Trust.

The falcons can generally be observed flying above the cathedral between March and August.

The cathedral will be staging Peregrine Open Days on the cathedral grounds from June 6 to July 5.

Running from Wednesday through Sunday, these events will give visitors the opportunity to observe the birds at close range using cameras and telescopes.

The falcons, which may span more than a metre across the wings, hold the title of fastest creature on Earth and have been observed plummeting at 242 miles per hour.

Those wanting to watch the birds can view the live broadcast through the Chichester Peregrines website or on Facebook.