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Before the fans, the players, and the excitement of the FIFA World Cup arrive at Toronto Stadium, six very special residents beat everyone to it.
High above the action, tucked away in the stadium rafters and overlooking BMO Field, a pair of Peregrine Falcons chose one of Canada's most iconic venues to raise their family. By the time the nest was discovered, four healthy chicks had already hatched and were busy growing up with a front-row seat to history.
Because Peregrine Falcons are a protected species, ensuring the safety of the birds, staff, and future spectators quickly became a shared priority.
Upon assuming operations of Toronto Stadium, FIFA reached out to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources for guidance on the best course of action. Following consultations with the Ministry, Hawkeye Bird and Animal Control was brought in as the recommended wildlife expert to evaluate the possibility of relocating the nest.
After careful inspections by Hawkeye's Dan Frankian and an independent safety team, it became clear that relocation wasn't necessary. The chicks had already matured to the point where they would be capable of flight soon, and like many peregrines before them, had imprinted on the place they call home. In fact, these remarkable birds are no strangers to the stadium. Peregrine Falcons have been returning to the site for years, making appearances season after season and reminding us that wildlife has a way of finding its place, even in the heart of a busy city.
From the beginning, the goal was never to dismantle the nest. Instead, the focus was on finding the best path forward for everyone involved. Working together, FIFA, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, Hawkeye, and safety partners developed a plan that prioritized coexistence and conservation. Dan Frankian's 35+ years of caring for birds of prey and his experience as a master falconer meant that the resident falcon family was in excellent hands.
And now, we're happy to report that all four chicks have successfully fledged and left the nest.
Their timing couldn't have been more perfect.
Thanks to the collaboration and shared commitment of everyone involved, this young family was able to grow, thrive, and take to the skies naturally. A reminder that progress and nature don't have to be at odds. Sometimes, with a little expertise, cooperation, and compassion, they can share the same space beautifully.
Before visitors poured into BMO Field for one of the world's biggest sporting events, four very special residents had already completed their own journey. They arrived first, they grew up safely, and now they've taken to the skies, leaving behind a story that reminds us that nature always finds a way.
Toronto's BMO Field (Toronto Stadium) is Home to Six Peregrine Falcons
