Ever hear the expression “A photo is worth a thousand words”? When you see photographer Kevin Rybczynski’s work, then you would have to agree. The images that he managed to surreptitiously capture of Peregrine falcons nesting at The Statler in Downtown Buffalo are absolutely breathtaking and brilliant. After hearing about one of the birds breaking a wing, I reached out to Kevin to ask about the tragic news. Our exchange recounted his run-in with the birds, and his passion for nature, wildlife and Buffalo.
How did you manage to capture these fascinating images of these majestic creatures?
I had a chance to visit the Statler City complex, because of my Instagram account and I was lucky enough to see these birds. The goal was tour the historic building, but when the birds noticed us walking through the building I was able to snap a couple shots with my iPhone.
You’ve seen these birds before, in various parts of the city. It’s hard to believe that they are making a comeback. Thoughts?
I’ve been an avid birder for many years and a die-hard Buffalonians my entire life. It seems that the urban confines of Buffalo and the natural world would not mesh, but that’s not true in many cases. The rare winter gulls and other bird species that flock to the Niagara River in the winter are second to nowhere in the world for those types of birds. Also, wintering snowy owls and migrating shorebirds find our outer harbor a perfect environment. Tifft Nature Preserve, Times Beach, and Forest Lawn are some of the best migrant traps in the North East, particularly for migrating warblers.
As for Peregrines, they were extirpated in NY State by 1965, due mainly to DDT. At first their comeback was slow. But several nesting pairs now can be found. They can be seen in several sites across the city. Central Terminal, Statler, UB South, and a few others.
I heard that one of the Statler falcons was recently injured – a broken wing? An news on that?
The falcon is being taken care of through the SPCA by a gentleman named Dr. Moran.