The Farallones consist of a group of rocky islands that are 28 miles North of San Francisco Bay.

The Northern Farallones were originally granted protection by President Teddy Roosevelt in 1909. However, these islands were not always protected. Human consumption decimated many populations, some never to return. The demand for fur, oil and meat devastated the elephant and fur seal population. By 1900, the robust Common Murre population dwindled down to a few thousand because of the demand for Murre eggs.

Today, the Islands are further protected under the Marine Life Protection Act and the Farallones are also deemed a state marine conservation area. The majority of visitors of the human persuasion are not allowed access to the islands as they would upset the balance of the largest seabird breeding colony in the United States. Those humans that do frequent the island include wildlife biologists and land managers who are conducting wildlife research.

PRBO Conversation Science has been a local on the island day and night conducting research and monitoring the natives. The webcam helps their cause by collecting scientific data from a remote location. The camera enables biologists to observe without disturbing wildlife or incurring adverse environmental impact.

The water surrounding the islands makes this an ideal stomping ground for marine life and seabirds alike. Coastal upwelling takes place in the spring around the islands. The Coriolis Effect along the coast drives surface waters away from the coast; this water is then replaced with the denser waters from below. Within the deeper waters is a wealth of nutrients that are photosynthesized into dense blooms of plant plankton when exposed to the sun. This energizes the marine food chain as the plant plankton is eaten by krill. Krill is then made available to eat for fish, birds, and marine mammals. It does not only feed surrounding wildlife but growing human populations as well. The most productive fisheries in the world are supported by coastal upwelling. Given the location and the diversity of wildlife, the Farallones is well worth protecting.

The webcam not only aids research; it assuages curiosity. Anyone can pilot the camera. A panoramic view of the island is set up for the user to navigate and explore. Field guides and information on the project are also given on the site to reference observations.

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Clara soars over San Jose. Credit: Evet Loewen.

This year, Clara is back in the City Hall nest box, but early rumors proved true: she had found a new companion. The tiercel (male falcon) was dubbed "Carlos" and it was soon discovered that the bird was likely hacked (released) at Long Marine Lab in Santa Cruz. The pair is now incubating 4 eggs and their fans are hoping the eggs will hatch by the end of April.

Just like last year, you can watch the family drama unfold on the live San Jose webcam or take a look at some of the highlights so far. Both fans and biologists have an online discussion group that tracks their every move.

To catch up on last year's events, watch QUEST's Falcon Fascination online, and find additional links and resources.

Lauren Sommer is an Associate Media Producer for QUEST.

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