BGSU seeks return of pilfered peregrine

BOWLING GREEN, O. -- The Bowling Green State University Department of Biological Sciences is seeking the return of a valued peregrine falcon specimen, which was removed from a display case on the third floor of the Life Sciences building sometime between Nov. 8 and Nov. 13.

The BGSU Police Department is investigating the theft.

The falcon was part of the University’s Ornithology Collection of more than 2,400 birds. About 1,100 specimens are on display on the third and fourth floors of the Life Sciences Building.

The bird may be a part of the original collection of Edwin L. Moseley, a distinguished naturalist and educator who was the first professor of science at what was then Bowling Green Normal College, now BGSU.

University officials indicated that the stuffed peregrine falcon may be returned with “no questions asked.”

“If the falcon is returned, we are not interested in pressing charges,” said Dr. Jeffrey Miner, Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences. “We just want it back. Please do not throw it out.”

The exact age of the missing falcon is not known. However, Miner says it is one of the older pieces in the collection, and it is an important specimen for teaching and research at the University.

Miner added that because of the age of the specimen, it should be handled carefully. “Long-term exposure to preservatives that were commonly used in older taxidermy can be harmful,” he said. “Any taxidermy specimens should be handled with gloves.”

The peregrine falcon has been BGSU’s official mascot since 1927.

If found, the bird may be returned to the Department of Biological Sciences in Room 217 of the Life Sciences Building. A message about its location can be left at (419) 372-2332.  

Anyone with information about the missing falcon may also contact the BGSU Police Department at (419) 372-2346.