Kestrel feeding

Not too often, I am able to find a Kestrel falcon stalking food. Most of the time
they sit on power lines and watch  for photographers trying to take their pictures. They
wait until the photographer stops and turns vehicle around and pulls out the camera.
The Kestrel gives it a count of 3 and then takes OFF.

Kestrel in a hard diving turn.
 Yeah, I know it is blurred. I'm practicing on still life.
This bird is never still when there is a camera around.
 Kestrels are more tolerant of Canon equipment.

Active flight is light and buoyant, soars on flat wings, often with tail fanned.

 It is a fast flyer at speeds of 36 mph, It is the only North American falcon to hunt

 regularly by hovering (wing flapping) or in strong winds, by kitting (wings held steady).

Kestrel Males are 9-10" tall and 20" wingspreads. This bird was photographed at approximately 50 yards, canon 5D MK3 500mm f4.

Kestrel Hover

Kestrel Hover

Kestrel Hover

Kestrel Hover

Kestrel Hover

Kestrel Hover