Cornell University announced that a red-tailed hawk known as Big Red has continued to nest atop the lights of Robison Alumni Fields on central campus during construction of the new Meinig Fieldhouse. The bird has been a familiar presence on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Bird Cams for more than a decade.

Before work began on the Meinig Fieldhouse in 2024, Cornell staff expressed concern that the hawk might not return after construction started. Charles Eldermire, a multimedia producer with the Lab of Ornithology, said that the team prioritized keeping the existing nesting site and continuing the live stream.

In the following year, Cornell Facilities staff, construction workers, and ornithologists worked together to minimize disruptions for the hawk and her fledglings. Their efforts included taking measures to protect the birds from collisions with the building’s windows. During construction, the hawks were observed perching on cranes and fluttering around steel beams. Workers at the site decorated their hard hats with Big Red stickers and even created a temporary birdbath.

Jake Duell, construction manager for Cornell Facilities, noted that while the construction crew is used to a tough work environment, they showed a softer side when it came to caring for the hawks.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Ithaca, NY

https://www.facebook.com/709174307912162/posts/1240101848152736

Cornell President: Universities Transform Society and Economy

University leaders discuss higher education's societal impact and economic benefits.

Mesoamerican Forests Key for North American Birds Extinction Risk

Mesoamerica's Great Forests are vital for migrating North American birds' survival.

Cornell Professor Reveals Evergreen's Historical Witness Role

Evergreen trees preserve history, acting as silent witnesses over millions of years.

Snow Engulfs Cornell University Campus in Ithaca

Cornell University campus in Ithaca experiences snowy conditions.

Cornell Study Links Aging to Dopamine Neuron Decline

Aging increases dopamine neuron vulnerability due to energy shortages linked to Parkinson’s.

Early Allergen Exposure Protects Horses from Future Allergies

Early allergen exposure in horses reduces later eczema-like allergic reactions.

Cornell Study Reveals Psilocybin’s Brain Circuit Rewiring

Psilocybin reconfigures brain circuits, weakening negative feedback and boosting sensory pathways.

Cornell Seeks Student Advice Ahead of Finals

Cornell seeks student advice for managing final exam challenges.

Ithaca Vineyard Hosts Festive Holiday Spree

Six Mile Creek Vineyard hosted a festive holiday shopping spree for its customers.

ESC Vesicles Delay Aging, Enhance Regeneration

Embryonic stem cell vesicles delay cell aging and aid regeneration.