For the past few months I tried to photograph an American Kestrel's back head and wasn't successful and finally a few weeks ago I succeed. You probably wonder what is so special about the Kestrel's back head? As you can see there are two false eye spots that create the illusion of a false face. The predators often are fooled by the false face and think they are being watched, or are uncertain which way the Kestrel is facing, which causes them to either delay or give up an attack.
The Kestrel doesn't look friendly.
What is interesting that the Kestrel wasn't annoyed by my presence but on this photo he looks annoyed and acts as if he wants to stop me from photographing him.
Generally, life is good!
A bird with a rough look and strong claws. He is certainly a successful hunter.
ReplyDeletewhat an amazing outfit !!!
ReplyDeletePreciosas fotografías de esta bella ave. Yo creo que también estaba molesto por esa araña que rondaba por su plumaje. Interesante comentario sobre la fisonomía del cernícalo americano.
ReplyDeleteUn abrazo y cuidate.
Ya que lo dices. En la segunda fotografía levantado la pata, parece que dice ...Basta ya de fotografías...aunque si las hubiera visto, se sentiría orgulloso de lo bien que ha salido en ellas.
ReplyDeleteBesos
Love the photos and I didn't know they had what looks like eyes in the back of the head. Our Big Bear Zoo - Alpine zoo, has (if they still do) a kestrel that was rescued. Now I'm wondering where my photos are. I have to go look which will take me days, lol.
ReplyDeletePrecious this American kestrel perfectly reported. Greetings Kaya
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