The American kestrel, a small and flashy falcon found coast to coast, has experienced a sharp decline in population. This decline is particularly concerning as birds of prey in North America are generally considered a conservation success story. While species like bald eagles and red-tailed hawks have thrived, the American kestrel has faced a puzzling […]
Tag: kestrels
What Is Causing the Perplexing Decline of the American Kestrel?
On a chilly, overcast December morning in North Texas, a car prowls a pitted dirt road. The occupants are straining forward, looking intently at the sky. “Kestrel!” says Maddy Kaleta from the passenger seat, pointing to a tiny black blob on a power line ahead. She whips out binoculars and confirms the bird isn’t banded. […]
Can birdwatching really improve our mental health? The science says yes
We all know that spending time in nature is enjoyable, but now there’s increasing evidence that wildlife – and birds in particular – have a profound positive impact on our mental wellbeing. We delve into the latest discoveries from the fields of biology, economics and psychology. Over the past 18 months, everyone I know turned […]
Orange County (California) Birds of Prey
Of all the subjects I photograph, birds of prey are my favorite. These predators are birds that hunt for food primarily via flight, using their keen senses, especially vision. Many different species call Orange County, California their home. With some moderate hiking and a small dose of patience, it is possible to capture most of […]