Ranger and SWThe identity of the new male has been confirmed; he is indeed Ranger, B/92, from the Eastlake nest, born in 2008. He definitely wants SW, the nest, and the territory. Whether SW will accept him or not will be her decision. SW is an extremely fierce falcon; back in 2002, she killed Buckeye's former mate, the mighty Zenith, in a bitterly-contested territorial battle. Scott Wright went out on to the narrow ledge, on the twelfth floor of the Terminal Tower, without a rope or harness, to bring Zenith inside. He could not leave her lying on the ledge, and I totally understand that.
Over the years since then, SW has become a much loved falcon. She and Buckeye forged a very strong, and gentle, bond. They worked perfectly together each year to incubate their eggs and raise their young. Buckeye was a great provider, and very protective of his family.
Ranger SW (left) and Ranger
(Photos by Chad & Chris)Ranger seems to be a fairly large tiercel; there is very little size difference between him and SW.