The Massachusetts Audubon keeps statistics on the American Kestrel. You can report a Kestrel sighting here.
American Kestrels: Fighter Jets of the Sky
Kestrels are the smallest falcon and were once common in New England. In recent years, they have become much rarer due to the lack of open space.
Falcons are characterized by long wings and tails, which have evolved for maximizing speed during flight and vertical dives for catching prey. Since kestrels are the only falcon that will nest in boxes, the Wachusett Meadow Audubon has strategically placed several nesting boxes for these “fighter jets” of the sky.
During a recent visit, I saw my first kestrel. It was perched at the very top of an evergreen, where it was surveying the entire environment around its nesting box. The Audubon has rerouted nearby trails in an effort to protect these rare birds. I look forward to seeing kestrel babies soon!
About the author jmankowsky
I live in Central Massachusetts in the United Stares, where I have recently retired from public school teaching after thirty-four years. I am a nature photographer, particularly focusing on the the wide variety of birds to be found in this area. I am a keen supporter of the Massachusetts Audubon and the exceptional work that they do in education and protecting nature. It pleases me that many of the photographs I have posted here have also been displayed on the Wachusett Meadow Audubon in Princeton, MA website. I would love to connect with other primary school teachers in the hope that these photos might be useful in inspiring children to a greater connection with nature.
-
April 27, 2018
-
April 25, 2018
-
April 23, 2018
All posts by jmankowsky →Cafeteria Lines (Weekly Photo Challenge)
Red Fox Kit
The Blues