Tag Archives: Hawk

Birds, Charleston, What I Saw, Wildlife

Small But Mighty, American Kestrel

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This is the smallest falcon in North America.

I took this shot with her handler to give some perspective as to her actually size. People outside the US may be familiar with the Eurasian Kestrel, a larger but ‘look a like’ relative.

Small But Mighty, American Kestrel
Small But Mighty, American Kestrel

This is a young bird and I believe she was hit by a car. A very common injury unfortunately.

Small But Mighty, American Kestrel
Small But Mighty, American Kestrel

(Wikipedia) They are from 22 to 31 cm (8.7 to 12.2 in) in length with a wingspan of 51–61 cm (20–24 in).

Avian Conservancy, Charleston, South Carolina.

Birds, Landscape, Marsh, Swamp, Wildlife

Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk

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One thing I learned about open swamps is to check the dead trees and snags.

Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk

The Red-shouldered Hawks will use the high vantage point whenever one is near.

Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk

Even if it is a little ‘spindly’ at the top like the last shot above.

Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk
Dead Trees Are Best, Hawk

I’ve also found many of the Florida / Georgia birds have less color than their Lowcountry cousins.