Peregrines' political power perch

Peregrine falcons are making an urban comeback in and around the capital

A pair of peregrine falcons appear to have moved into the seat of government atop the Houses of Parliament.

The London Wildlife Trust said the rare birds of prey, which normally live on cliff-edges and crags, have been spotted perched high on the Commons.

It said peregrines were enjoying a resurgence after their numbers fell to just 360 pairs across the UK in 1963.

They first returned to London in 2001 and wildlife watchers believe there are now 13 pairs in and around the capital.

Volunteer David Morrision, who has been monitoring the peregrine population in London since 2000, said: "Discovering a pair of peregrines are holding territory on parliament is incredibly exciting.

"Perhaps surprisingly, London actually has the largest population of breeding urban peregrines in the UK."

Wimbledon duty

London Wildlife Trust said peregrines were doing well in London, using the city's tall buildings and structures as a substitute to the cliff ledges that would normally attract them.

Pairs have previously been spotted on other landmarks including Tate Modern, Battersea Power Station and the Millennium Dome.

London Wildlife Trust wants to encourage developers to design buildings and structures so they can be a haven for wildlife such as peregrines, boosting biodiversity in the capital.

One peregrine chick was being trained to help keep the tennis courts around Wimbledon free of pigeons during the annual tournament.