Tropical Butterfly House in hunt for missing falcon

The peregrine is the star attraction of the twice-daily birds of prey displays at the Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife and Falconry Centre at North Anston.

But on Saturday, the super-speedy falcon went AWOL and staff at the centre are now eager for his safe return.

Head keeper Chrissie Jackson said: “Falcons are very sensitive to environmental

conditions and are able to detect changes in the weather far in advance.

“Skye predicted an oncoming downpour and sought to seek cover but failed to return.

“We are worried about him. As a captive bird he is not suited to life in the wild and is unlikely to be able to fend for himself for long. We hope someone out there spots him soon.”

Skye is usually the headline act of the shows at the centre which also feature a scavenging turkey vulture, a barn owl and a snake-killing Kookaburra called Kookie.

Chrissie added: “It is not the same without Skye’s finale when he shows off his talents by flying high up into the sky before swooping down at speeds of up to 80 mph, just skimming visitors’ heads.

“It’s particularly sad that he has gone missing as he has just reached peak physical condition.

“He has been putting on some dazzling performances recently.”

Skye hatched in 2001 and has been at the centre since he was a chick.

“He has only ever flown off once before and that time he was found in Macclesfield.

Now, the team is asking people in the area to be vigilant.

Chrissie added: “Flying birds of prey does not of course go without risk but they can be unpredicatable.

“We use quality radio tracking equipment but he was off so fast it was hard to keep track of him.

“We just hope he has found somewhere safe to rest.”

Anyone with information on Skye’s whereabouts should call 01909 569416.