We are delighted to share a hopeful development from the tower of St Albans Cathedral: our resident peregrine falcons, Alban and Boudica, have laid two new eggs.

"These extraordinary birds have once again reminded us of nature's strength and beauty."

This comes just weeks after a difficult incident in early April that led to the loss of their first clutch of eggs. The falcons’ return and the laying of new eggs are powerful signs of nature's resilience, and one that brings a renewed sense of hope to all who have followed their story.

The Dean of St Albans, the Very Revd Jo Kelly-Moore, has said:

“These extraordinary birds have once again reminded us of nature’s strength and beauty, We are heartened by their return, and we remain fully committed to their safety and wellbeing. This Cathedral has always been a place of sanctuary — for people and for wildlife alike.”

Safety first: what happened, and what we have done

On Monday 7 April, an incident occurred at the peregrine falcon nest that led to the loss of the eggs. This incident involved unauthorised access to a restricted area. The matter was immediately reported to Hertfordshire Constabulary. Hertfordshire Constabulary have today confirmed (Friday 11 July) that "Our investigation is ongoing, and we are working with the Crown Prosecution Service following further lines of enquiry."

While the details of the investigation are rightly being handled by the police, we recognise the seriousness of what happened. As custodians of this Cathedral and its wildlife, we accept our share of responsibility for the conditions that allowed the incident to occur.

In the days that followed, we conducted a full review of our safeguarding and access procedures — particularly those relating to the falcon nesting site. With input from wildlife specialists and security professionals, we have made significant changes to ensure a more secure and controlled environment going forward.  The Cathedral has prepared a short Q&A for more frequently asked questions.

Alan Hartwell, Chief Operating Officer at St Albans Cathedral, commented:

"The recent incident came as a great shock to us all. The Cathedral cares deeply about the peregrine falcons, we know how much they mean to everyone and we take our responsibilities very seriously.

Our policies and procedures, operated with the approval of Hertfordshire Constabulary and in consultation with wildlife experts, are designed to protect the birds. 

Following the incident we decided to suspend the live webcam while the police investigated and we carried out a comprehensive review, which has resulted in a number of changes to prevent such an incident happening again.

We will continue to work closely with Hertfordshire Constabulary, wildlife experts, and our wider community to ensure the continued protection of the peregrine falcons at the Cathedral."

The livestream returns

With new safety measures now in place, we are pleased to announce that the peregrine falcon livestream is back online.

We know how deeply the live camera has connected people to the life of the Cathedral and its wild visitors, from schoolchildren to bird lovers around the world. Its temporary removal was a difficult but necessary decision made in the interest of protection and privacy.

Now, with the new egg laid and confidence in our improved security arrangements, we welcome you once again to witness the wonder of these birds from a respectful distance.

Watch the Peregrine Falcon Livestream Here

Looking ahead, together

The presence of peregrine falcons at St Albans Cathedral is a rare and treasured gift, Alban and Boudica being one of only five breeding pairs in the county. To see the Peregines nesting here speaks to the spirit of this Cathedral community that is shaped by the story of Alban, and reminds us to ensure this is a place where sanctuary is more than history, but a living call to care for all who find refuge here.

“We know how much these falcons mean to people — both near and far,” said Dean Jo. “The livestream has connected thousands to the rhythms of nature, and the loss of the first clutch was felt deeply by many. We also recognise that there are no guarantees — this new egg may or may not hatch — but we hold hope gently, and we hold these birds, and all of God's creation, in our prayers.”

We thank everyone — conservation partners, police, volunteers, and the public — for your patience, concern, and encouragement. We will continue to share updates as the season progresses and ask you to join us in hope and prayer for a safe and successful nesting season.