Work on demolishing a Birmingham tower block was delayed because a family of squatters moved in.
But council housing bosses were in no hurry to evict this family – because it was a pair of peregrine falcons and their four chicks.
The birds of prey had made a nest for their fledging family on the roof of Bayley Tower in Bromford.
Housing officers from Birmingham City Council discovered their latest tenants in early spring and immediately contacted wildlife experts.
They were told to leave the birds alone and not disturb then until they had all flown the nest.
Peregrine falcons are one of the fastest animals in the world. They are believed to achieve speeds of over 200kph (124mph) when plunging from the sky after prey. This iconic bird of prey is also one of the world’s most widely distributed birds, found on every continent except Antarctica.
Birmingham City Council’s discovery delayed the bulldozers moving in, but council housing boss, Councillor John Lines, said these were squatters he was happy to see.
“I don’t normally like it when tenants move into my properties and don’t pay rent, but in this case I’ll make an exception,” he said.
“I’m a very proud landlord and was quite happy to delay the demolition preparation so the falcons could stay there.
“We believe this is the first successful breeding of falcons in Birmingham for many years.”
The existence of the falcons was kept secret for fear thugs would try and steal the chicks.
Last month the family tried to flee the nest but were grounded.
They were taken to the Falconry Centre at Hagley where one sadly died of its injuries.
The remaining adults and three chicks were returned to Bayley Tower and last week eventually flew away.
Housing officers will now put a new nesting box on nearby towers in case the falcons, or others, return.
Before they flew, the birds had rings put around their legs so they can be identified if they are found.
Peregrines prefer open landscapes, but are increasingly exploiting towns and cities where there are tall buildings for nesting and plenty of pigeons for prey.
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Further information from Belinder Kaur Lidher on 0121 303 6969
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