American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) on a snowy perch –Â Nikon D200, f6.3, 1/640, ISO 400, +1.0, Nikkor 200-400mm with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light, not baited
The American Kestrel is our smallest falcon in North America but what they lack in size I feel they make up for in attitude.
This bird was perched on dried vegetation on Antelope Island State Park this past winter, there had been a light snow overnight and some of the snow was still sticking to the branches of the sagebrush. Because of the blue sky in the background I had to raise my EV to +1.0 so that the bird would not appear too dark. I’d rather get the exposure right in the camera than to try to raise the dark tones in post processing because that can introduce unnecessary noise.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Kestrel photos plus facts and information about this species.
The American Kestrel and the White-tailed Kite are my favorite raptors. I got to see a Kestrel up close at a show by a local Raptor Rehab Organization. You really get how small they are when you are close to them. Your image does justice to this beautiful bird. I also enjoy your narratives on the blog.