Adult male American Kestrel stretching his wings – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 500, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I took a long series of photos of this male American Kestrel in a tree at Farmington Bay WMA back in January and decided that I liked these two photos of the kestrel the best. The light was wonderful and the sky behind the kestrel was a pleasing blue which contrasted nicely with the warm tones of the seed pods on the tree and the colors of the kestrel’s plumage. Most of the time the kestrel just perched on the branch but when he stretched I was ready and captured this pose of him with his wings high over his body. After this stretch he moved a bit forward on the branch.
Male American Kestrel about to lift off from a tree – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 500, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
After a few second the kestrel lifted off and flew towards another tree but not before I took this photo just as he was about to lift off. I have to say that I think these little falcons are handsome no matter what they are doing.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Kestrel photos plus facts and information about this species.
Drop-dead gorgeous shots Mia. Thanks.
Early bird gets the worm, the patient photographer gets the shots! Way to go, Mia. These images were worth your patient wait and expert preparation and timing to be ready to shoot when the Kestel made his moves. Thanks, as always, for your great attention to detail and your willingness to educate the world about the birds you shoot. I learn more about birds with every one of your exceptional blog posts!
Very good looking photos.
My favorite falcon, I saw one just the other day. First one this winter. Lovely birds
Again, text but no pics…
I love these little birds. There was a pair near where I live but I haven’t seen them for a couple of years. I do miss them.
Handsome birds, definitely
LOVE Kestrels, and I’ve heard they are flighty and difficult to photograph. Nice job!!