Kestrels are one kewl little raptor and gorgeous. They are the smallest falcon in North America as well as the most abundant. They are also one of the most colorful of all of the falcons.

There is also a distinction between the males and females which is unusual. Male kestrels are more colorful than females. Males have slate blue on their wings and a rusty red back and breast. Females do not have slate blue wings, but instead have the rusty red color along their back and wings. Female tail feathers are barred, meaning the tail is striped with black and rust color. Both sexes have a white face with a double set of black vertical stripes. The head is slate blue with a small rusty red patch on top, which is more visible on the male.

During my birds of prey photography workshop we were able to photograph kestrels in controlled situations. With the help of master falconers we were able to place the birds in natural and very pretty backgrounds. If you would like to join me on my next birds of prey workshop you can get details…HERE.

You can also see all of my kestrel images…HERE.

In case you were curious:

  • Kestrels are also referred to as sparrow hawks.
  • Young kestrels learn to hunt by hunting in family groups.
  • The world looks bluish to kestrels because they can see ultraviolet light.
  • Kestrels can fly 60 miles per hour when pursuing prey.
  • The average length of the American kestrel is 9 (23cm) to 12 inches (30.5cm), about the size of a robin.

My birds of prey photography workshop was held in conjunction with the Peregrine Fund and the World Center for Birds of Prey. They have an amazing story and facility. They are also open for tours, however if you want the kind of photography that you see here, you’ll need to join me for one of my workshops.

Visit their website to learn about how that are saving the world’s raptors one bird at a time…HERE.

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