Early morning female American Kestrel resting on a rock – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/320, ISO 1000, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
Yesterday morning I was able to take female American Kestrel photos from the causeway to Antelope Island State Park twice. The first time was on my way onto the island and the second time was leaving to head home. Both times had it not been for my keen eyesight and my habit of paying attention I might have missed out on taking these photos.
I spotted this adult female American Kestrel as she zoomed across the the causeway and noticed that she had landed on the rocks near the first bridge. The kestrel was resting on a rock in the shadows.
Some bird photographers may not have taken photos of the resting female kestrel because she was in the shadows but with the right choice of exposure settings this small falcon pops on my screen. If I hadn’t told you would you have known she was photographed in the shadows caused by rocks and vegetation on the east side of the bridge? Probably not.
I liked all of the images I took of this female America Kestrel resting on the rock.
Adult female American Kestrel back view – Nikon D500, f9, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
This female American Kestrel may or may not be the same female shown in the photo above. I spotted this kestrel perched next to the road on one of the reflectors next to the pavement not far from where I had photographed the kestrel resting on a rock earlier in the morning. It is possible that it is the same bird and it is just as possible that she is a different individual. They look alike so I can’t say for certain either way.
What I can say for sure is that this beautiful, little falcon gave me a great view of her colorful backside, face and eye in this pose.
Adult female American Kestrel perched on a wildflower stalk – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
When the American Kestrel took off from the reflector she landed on a wildflower stalk not far from the road. She was actively looking around for prey at this point in time and tipping her tail up and down ever so slightly. It was my hope to photograph her as she lifted off to go after prey.
Female American Kestrel lifting off – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1600, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light, not baited
My hope was realized in the next frame. I was able to photograph her as she turned and lifted off with her wings almost straight above her head and body. By the time I took the next image she had turned her head away from me. I took a few more images of this kestrel on a different perch before I left for home.
I checked the date of what was my last visit to Antelope Island to find and photograph birds because I couldn’t recall how long it had been since I had been there. The last time I had been to the island was on September 28, 2020 to see my friends Jim and Nancy DeWitt who were camping there. A lot has changed since my last trip to the island. Those changes are a topic I may write about on another day, another time.
Life is good.
Mia
To view more of my American Kestrels photos plus facts and information about this species click here.
Your recent posts featuring Kestrels have been extraordinary. This group of pics is particularly fascinating. I love the eye contact you were able to capture. What a magnificent bird! Thanks Mia.
Beautiful set, brings back memories.
Beautiful image in open shade. When the sun gets high there can be problems with deep shadows. I am seeing only a single male kestrel in our local wetlands. It is very faithful to its territory along a row of Royal Palms. Coincidentally I featured it in my blog this week.
Love the coy, over-the-shoulder look she’s giving you in the second shot. The takeoff shot is fabulous as well; she hasn’t pulled her “wheels” up yet.
I definitely feel some trepidation over what you’re going to say about Antelope Island in its “changed” state.
Lovely kestrel images. I was thinking of going out this afternoon if they have snow.
I bet you, your feelings about the changes are similar if not exactly the same as mine! I’ll pm you some.
I am so very grateful for your observant eye and the beauties you so generously share. Many, many thanks.
Great captures, thanks!
I love kestrels, and these shots are wonderful. Thank you.
Great shots Mia! One of my favorite birds to photograph. You even got a difficult takeoff shot of an extremely fast little guy/gal. These shots sure made the trip to the island worth while..
One of my favourite birds. I love their colourings.
Just lovely. Don’t see the too often.