This time of year, nature enthusiasts who log on to I&M’s Falcon Cam to view the activities of peregrine falcons Moxie and Jamie nesting atop Indiana Michigan Power Center (IMPC) are usually rewarded by the sight of eggs and eventually fluffy adorable chicks. While there is currently an egg in the nest, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation representatives say it’s unlikely to hatch.

There are several reasons for this, including age and territorial competition. Avian experts believe Moxie was challenged this year by a younger peregrine falcon, which distracted her from egg-laying duties.  At the age of 15, Moxie’s reproductive ability may also be reduced and the same may apply to Jamie who is 16 this year.

Since 1996, more than 70 peregrine falcon chicks have hatched in the nest on the roof of IMPC. Moxie and Jamie’s offspring account for more than 30 of those. Several of their offspring have been spotted on fellow falcon cameras in in LaCrescent, Minnesota (Elaine U09, Granddaughter) and as far away as Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Carla S07, Daughter) and have had chicks of their own.

The falcon pair also have loyal followers. Since 2019, viewers around the world, including some as far away as Australia, Japan and China, have watched the live feed more than half a million times.

Without a new chick, the traditional naming and banding event will not be held this year.  However, we do have plans to do something special for falcon viewers. Stay tuned for details later this summer.