JACKSON, MI –

The loud screeching noises the two make when swooping and diving for prey in downtown Jackson are back, as well as the occasional pigeon heads found on the sidewalk near the county building.

For the past four years, the two peregrine falcons living atop the Jackson County Tower Building, 120 W. Michigan Ave., have captured the hearts of locals. Many have closely followed Big Red and Chayton’s journey, from the first time the couple decided to nest on top of the downtown building, to the first time they became parents.

We get excited when Big Red starts laying eggs — even more thrilled when they hatch, and often sad when they are old enough to leave Jackson often with names picked by Citizen Patriot readers.

Last year, Big Red beat her own record by laying five eggs.

While only four hatched, all were healthy and took off to explore the world looking for lifetime mates.

Big Red and Chayton fledged three chicks, or eyasses, in 2010 and 2011. Fledge is a stage during which the feathers and wings are developed for flight and the bird is considered to be in a fully grown state.

In 2012 and also in 2013, the couple fledged four chicks.