Habitat Island is a man-made island in False Creek built as part of the re-development of the south side. They installed a couple of natural snags, I think in the hopes of attracting eagles. I check the snags every time I pass, but haven't seen an eagle yet. But today I saw a Peregrine Falcon! We're getting closer....

I worked on the park adjacent to the habitat island for a year and a half. The snags have attracted a wide variety of birds including eagles, gulls, crows, starlings, and a perigrine that was here last winter. It has been nice to see the variety of species in and out of the water there.

Till then,
Mike Klotz

Thanks Mike, I'm glad to hear Eagles have visited. I've seen all the other birds you mentioned there, but not Eagles yet. I have high hopes the island will become a mini wildlife magnet.

Personally, the Peregrine was more of a thrill than an Eagle, but I know the general public wouldn't even notice the other birds there. But an Eagle gets everyone's attention and makes them proud of their city - and hopefully that translates to public support for projects like this.

I am curious to see how that man-made stream works too. Do you know what the source of the water is? Is it municipal treated water or storm water or....?

Hinge Park as it is called right now, is to be fed from the storm water from the western half of the olympic village and the catchment area west from 2nd to Cambie street bridge. I was there yesterday and saw the peregrine making his rounds above the park. The eagles that roost on the snag are or were nesting by the old train station on Main and first. I have not seen the nest, but I am told it is there. The park is a great culmination of recycling and local flora and fauna. I have talked the city into placing swallow boxes in the channel. I wouldnt mind a little help with the demensions of the boxes if someone knows.

Mike

Thanks for the info Mike. I think it's terrific you are thinking of putting nest boxes up. There are definitely swallows in False Creek, they won't need much prompting to set up housekeeping I'm sure.

Incidentally, we saw a Peregrine Falcon again today - this time right downtown, snacking on a bird (pigeon?) on a building ledge off Hornby St. I don't think it was the same one I saw before, it seemed bigger. Never seeing one before, then seeing 2 within three weeks seems like an excellent sign. Anyone else seeing Peregrines in the city?