Drone spotted dangerously close to falcon nest

A bird charity has issued a warning after a drone was spotted illegally flying near the nest of a rare bird just as its eggs are due to hatch.

The aerial camera was seen close to the peregrine falcon breeding site at Norwich Cathedral on Monday.

The birds have laid four eggs, with the chicks expected to emerge over the next few days in the cathedral spire nest.

"This is extremely dangerous for the birds and a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981," said the Hawk and Owl Trust, which manages the site.

"Peregrine falcons are protected and currently nesting - disturbance can cause stress, nest abandonment or harm to the chicks."

They urged anyone who saw any more drones in the area to call the police on 999.

The birds of prey have nested at Norwich Cathedral for 16 years and the charity has opened its watch point in the grounds this week, ahead of the eggs hatching.

Hundreds of thousands of people eager to catch the moment have also been watching the charity's 24-hour live webcam.

The first egg of the year was laid on 21 March and three more have since appeared.

In the first year of life, the peregrines have a 60% mortality rate.

Norfolk Police have been contacted for comment by the BBC.

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