3 falcon chicks hatch atop the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in New York City

NEW YORK — Three peregrine falcon chicks have hatched in a nest built at the top of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge in New York City, officials said.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority Bridges and Tunnels said Friday that the chicks hatched in a nest box set up by the agency atop a 211-foot tower on the bridge, which connects Brooklyn and Staten Island.

Officials check the nest every year around the end of May to put identification bands on the falcon chicks so they can keep track of how many peregrine falcons are in the city and to identify them if they become sick.

The three chicks were ringed on Friday and are about three weeks old, according to a statement.

Urban peregrine falcons often nest on high points, such as bridges and church towers, as they provide the birds with a good place to spot prey. Peregrine falcons are on the state’s endangered bird list.