STAFF at Thorp Perrow Arboretum are playing host to nine rare peregrine falcon chicks, after a successful breeding programme.

The chicks, known as eyasses, eat incessantly and double their birth weight in the first six days. Within three weeks they are ten times their birth weight.

Tom Graham, who owns and runs the falcon and mammal centre at Thorp Perrow, near Bedale, said it had been a busy breeding season.

“To have nine peregrine falcon chicks is good, he said.

“We will keep some of them and others will go on the stock list.

“We interchange with other centres and establishments. We have falcons, hawks, vultures and owls from all five continents of the world.

“It is wonderful to see them growing and thriving. We are still waiting for the snowy owls - they’re sitting on eggs so they’ll be the next to arrive.”

Mr Graham said a large part of the work they do is educational.

“In the new millennium, where our native and world population of raptors are still under pressure from deforestation and changing agricultural methods, conservation through education is an essential factor in ensuring the future of these awe inspiring birds,” he said.