Photo of the Day: American Kestrel

This bird seems to defy gravity as it perches on a thin branch.  American Kestrels are the smallest falcons in North America, with the broadest range—they breed from the northern tip of the U.S. to the southern tip of Argentina. They gravitate toward human activity, like near pastures and parks, or even in urban areas, where they can easily spot prey. In recent years, invasive species like the European Starling have caused a decline of Kestrels, but conservation projects from various Audubon centers have provided the birds with nest boxes and well tended pasture land.  Climate change is also a threat for these birds.

For more on the American Kestrel:

American Kestrel Nest Box Success

American Kestrel Project

Mass Audubon American Kestrel

This image was a Top 100 photo from the 2011 Audubon Magazine Photography Awards. To see all photos, click here.