St. Petersburg is currently experiencing peak bird activity as adult birds are actively raising their young. This period is marked by both heartwarming scenes of new life and the harsh realities of the animal world, where survival often depends on predation.

A goshawk was observed on a St. Petersburg lawn on the morning of June 4th, interrupting its meal due to human onlookers. Goshawks are increasingly common in the city and primarily prey on pigeons, though they occasionally hunt crows and other birds.

The city’s reservoirs are also seeing a surge in waterfowl populations. At the base of the Lakhta Center, a mallard duck has successfully hatched a brood. Ducklings are now a common sight in nearly every urban pond.

In addition to ducklings, many fledglings, or young birds unable to fly, are present on lawns throughout St. Petersburg. Resources are available detailing how to identify fledglings and what actions to take if one is encountered on the street.