This Year’s Falcons Have Landed! Meet Zazu, Ruby, Stewie, and Paulie

There’s a familiar flutter atop the Oshawa Hospital, where our resident pair of peregrine falcons have once again welcomed a new generation into the world. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce Zazu, Ruby, Stewie, and Paulie — two girls and two boys — the latest chicks to hatch in the nest box that’s become a high-rise haven for these incredible birds of prey.  

It all began in 2014, when members of Lakeridge Health’s Engineering team discovered a pair of peregrine falcons on the hospital’s rooftop. With the help of the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Canadian Peregrine Foundation, a nest box was installed to provide a safe, secure home for the birds. Ever since, the same loyal pair have raised new chicks here each spring. 

On June 2, falcon experts from the Canadian Peregrine Foundation visited the nest to carefully band the chicks. During this process, Zazu, Ruby, Stewie, and Paulie were gently examined — from wing length to talon size — helping researchers gather important data about their health, gender, and development. This annual tradition is more than a check-up; it’s a vital part of tracking the species and supporting the continued recovery of peregrine falcons in Ontario. 

With their official bands in place, the chicks are now in the exciting phase of learning to fly. Under the watchful eyes of their parents, they take short, practice flights, strengthening their wings and honing their instincts. Before long, these four will be soaring high above Oshawa and beyond. 

Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Canadian Peregrine Foundation, the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the dedicated staff at Lakeridge Health, these once-endangered birds are thriving. 

Catch all the action on our YouTube livestream.