A nesting box for a pair of the world’s fastest animal species has been put on the roof of an iconic tower block.
Wildlife enthusiast Nik Mitchell installed the box for peregrine falcons on Arlington House in Margate on Thursday (February 12).
Nik Mitchell has installed a nest box on Arlington House, Margate. Picture: Nik Mitchell
He says he is “incredibly proud” of the project and hopes it will lead to the arrival of chicks in the future.
Peregrine falcons dive at speeds of up to 200mph, making them the fastest animal in the world.
They traditionally nest on clifftops, but are now often seen on tall buildings such as cathedrals and tower blocks.
A pair have been spotted at Arlington House for the past six years; however have not yet produced any offspring.
Peregrine falcons have been seen on Arlington House in Margate for the past six years. Picture: Nik Mitchell
The birds of prey do not collect twigs to make nests; instead burrowing a small hole in rocks.
But their brutalist home does not allow for this, and there is a danger eggs could roll away in the sea wind or get chilled by rainwater.
The new nesting box has a layer of gravel, and will hopefully see any eggs develop successfully.
Mr Mitchell, who runs the popular social media channel Get Wild, said: “I’m incredibly proud of this.
“It’s the perfect match: an iconic bird on an iconic building.
Peregrine Falcons have made the iconic Arlington House in Margate their home. Picture: Nik MitchellPeregrine falcons, seen on Arlington House in Margate. Picture: Nik Mitchell
“I want people to realise how lucky we are to have this level of wildlife in Margate.
“I’m so grateful to the team at Arlington House for letting me do this.
“They’ve done a great thing for the building and the town. We’ve given them the tools; now we just wait for the first eggs of a new generation.”
He adds that seeing the birds swoop at great speeds along the seafront adds a “whole new level of excitement” to the seaside town.
Peregrine falcons were once considered endangered due to declining numbers, but have made a comeback in recent years.
Arlington House was built in 1963 and has fallen into disrepair in recent years.
Earlier this month, owners told residents it was pursuing a refurbishment plan which could cost leaseholders £40,000 each in service charges.
Issues at the block includes a fire safety system which is not up to date and concrete at risk of crumbling.