Peregrine Falcons at Altona Refinery

11 November 2008

Mobil and the Victorian Peregrine Project (VPP) are pleased to announce the hatching of three fluffy peregrine falcon chicks – two male and one female – at Mobil’s Refinery in Altona.

This is the seventh year that the peregrine falcons have nested on the Refinery’s Thermofor Catalytic Cracker (TCC).  The nesting site is approximately 120 metres above ground.  The chicks are a few weeks old.

Peregrine falcons are considered to be one of the rarest birds of prey in Victoria.  Experts estimate there are as few as 500 breeding pairs.  Peregrines have been recorded diving at 350 km/h, making them the fastest animal on the planet.

Mobil has been working with the Victorian Peregrine Project to help protect the endangered birds and monitor the welfare of the three new chicks.  The VPP is a conservation and research initiative run by 200 volunteers.

Victor Hurley, Project Leader with VPP, said it is unusual for peregrines to nest on manmade structures. 

“Peregrine falcons usually lay their eggs in a shallow, scraped depression on a cliff or rock ledge,” he said.

The chicks have been weighed, measured and banded by Victor, with the help of Mobil Industrial Hygiene Adviser Nick Ardossi.  The chicks, which are making good progress, will stay in the nesting site for around six weeks.

Altona Refinery Manager Glenn Henson said employees were excited to see the peregrines return to Altona to nest on the tower.  “The Refinery continues to support the successful breeding program, which has seen 14 chicks born in the past seven years.”

The Victorian Peregrine Project is interested in learning about other peregrine nesting areas in Victoria and welcomes the involvement of new volunteers.  Phone Project Leader Victor Hurley on 0427 238 898.

Photos available on request

Further information:

Victorian Peregrine Project
Victor Hurley, Project Leader
0427 238 898

Mobil Australia
Rebecca Arnold, Public Affairs Adviser
03 9270 3478