This, our smallest Falcon, is quite common in NY State. However, Birds in central NY tend to be quite wary of close approach. The following shots are from the Caribbean Islands, where the Birds know no fear! Locally, they are referred to as "Killy-hawks".
A favored hunting perch near the hospital in Aruba. Note the cactus in the background. Eagle Beach, Aruba, NA. October, 2003. CP-4500 and EagleEye OpticZoom 5X lens.
This Bird was perched just above the main road and path to the Garden Restaurant. Long Bay Beach Resort, Tortola, BVI. February, 2003. CP-4500 and EagleEye OpticZoom 5X lens.
A super shot of the bold and inquisitive nature of the Killy-Hawk. Does the spread wing posture correlate with a threat display? Eagle Beach, Aruba, NA. October, 2003. CP-4500 and EagleEye OpticZoom 5X lens.
Perhaps I was no longer deemed a threat. Eagle Beach, Aruba, NA. October, 2003. CP-4500 and EagleEye OpticZoom 5X lens.
Shortly after this shot, the Kestrel swooped down into the garden and pounced on a small lizard. Long Bay Beach Resort, Tortola, BVI. February, 2003. CP-4500 and EagleEye OpticZoom 5X lens.