THE name of Winchester Cathedral's new resident peregrine has been announced.

The new female appeared recently closely followed by the death of Winnie.

It is thought that the new peregrine killed Winnie.

William's new partner is called Mel. On Winchester Cathedral's website, it said: “Mel is named after Melesina Trench (1768 –1827), Irish writer, diarist, poet and social campaigner who’s Latin epitaph is still visible opposite the North Transept today. 

“Mel was first sighted at the cathedral in February 2024 and since then has been displaying signs of nesting behaviour with William, the established male peregrine.”

Keith Betton, chairman of the Hampshire Ornithological Society, said: "I like a short name that is memorable, and it is good that the cathedral has found a way to make a connection with something in the grounds. Maybe William will become known as Will? Will and Mel sounds good to me. Others might disagree of course!"

The news of Winnie's death came last week and Mr Betton, said: “I have known Winnie since she first nested in Winchester in 2011. She was a fantastic mother – she reared five chicks in 2020 – something that very few peregrines ever do, and she was an ambassador for her species, being watched not only by us, but by thousands of people around the world. 

READ MORE: 'She was an ambassador for her species' - Cathedral peregrine Winnie dies

“I am sure this new female will stay and William will have a new partner. I hope you will all welcome her just as you welcomed William after the death of Chester. The cathedral will come up with a name for her – that’s not our job.

“Peregrines have bounced back from the dark days when they were super rare but they are still special birds and we are so lucky to have them in our city.

“Winnie – you’ll never know just how many people adored you. I know I did.”

To watch the cathedral's peregrine cameras, visit winchester-cathedral.org.uk/explore/peregrines/.