Southeastern Kestrel

[zig-123]

I've had the pleasure of seeing a rather rare bird here in southern Florida. The Southeastern American Kestrel is considered endangered. But, there are at least 2 Kestrels living at the local beach. It's a rather beautiful bird whose wings are really something to see when they are flying. I've yet to have the opportunity to photograph this bird in flight. But here is an image of one perched atop a tiki hut.

[flutelady]

Beautiful bird.

[saly]

One of my favorite birds ever. So pretty and cute. We have a few (American Kestrel) that live in my neighborhood but rarely perches close. Just a couple of months ago, there was one on top of a power pole and I was trying to get his picture. Suddenly he took off, flew right at me, landed and grabbed something (probably a lizard) about 2 feet in front of me, then flew away!!!! The whole thing happened in about 2 seconds, so no photos, but that was one great thrill!!!!

[Mugmar]

A rare find indeed. A great shot of a cute little bird.

[zig-123]

Thanks everyone for the responses. Last evening I went back to the location where I've seen these Kestrels and sure enough the 2 of them were there again. Still haven't been able to shoot them in flight but, this next photo is a little bit better;

[zig-123]

Originally Posted by saly

One of my favorite birds ever. So pretty and cute. We have a few (American Kestrel) that live in my neighborhood but rarely perches close. Just a couple of months ago, there was one on top of a power pole and I was trying to get his picture. Suddenly he took off, flew right at me, landed and grabbed something (probably a lizard) about 2 feet in front of me, then flew away!!!! The whole thing happened in about 2 seconds, so no photos, but that was one great thrill!!!!

Great tale, Saly. I think I would have jumped out of my shoes if it were me.

Zig

[gjtoth]

Nice job, Zig. Now that the weather is warming up, it's time for me to get off my butt and put the E-30 to work!

[zig-123]

Originally Posted by gjtoth

Nice job, Zig. Now that the weather is warming up, it's time for me to get off my butt and put the E-30 to work!

Hi Gary,

Hope you have as much fun using the E-30 as I did mine. It provided me with a lot of great photos over the years.

Zig

[Steven R]

Nice shots Zig. I have only seen those birds in the zoo aviary. I have never seen one anywhere in my neighborhood.

[pj1974]

Great captures, Zig

I really like the colours of the bird in the 1st photo, and the lovely pale blue sky behind it. Can you give me an idea of its size compared to other birds?

Saly - what a story. Glad you could share that... (even if it was too quick for you to grab a photo).

I hope that the American Kestrel will 'recover' in numbers! Thanks for your photos, Zig.

Paul