We’ve now entered the time of year when, in a typical season, the first eggs would be hatching. Instead, we remain without a single egg. It’s not for lack of effort—Ares and Vera continue to behave like a serious, committed pair, doing everything short of applying to an adoption agency. Each passing week makes it increasingly clear that this may be a barren season.
That outcome is especially poignant considering Ares’ age. Had the pair produced young this year, Vera could have benefitted from Ares’ deep reservoir of breeding experience—an invaluable resource for a first-time falcon mother. As things stand, the two remain bonded and deeply engaged in the rituals of courtship, despite no sign that reproduction will follow.
Unless we’re surprised by a very late clutch, we’re now curious to observe how long Ares will continue offering food gifts, and how long the pair will maintain their mating behavior. We expect their frequent and intense ledge displays to continue throughout the season—and likely beyond. These displays are central to how Peregrines maintain their pair bonds year-round, and Ares and Vera seem committed to keeping that connection strong, even if this year doesn’t bring a family.
